Stat: Inactivity can quickly affect mental wellbeing

As people become increasingly aware of the connection between their mental and physical health, research by sports apparel brand ASICS reveals that just one week of physical inactivity can have a significant impact on overall wellbeing.

According to its global Uplifting Minds Study, just one week of inactivity can reduce a person’s confidence by 20% and lead to a decline in positivity of 16%. Meanwhile, study participants reported a 23% increase in racing thoughts, along with a 22% drop in their ability to cope with stress.

These findings indicate an ongoing need for brands to support people in building regular and consistent physical activity into their routines – in particular as ASICS finds it takes just 15 minutes of physical activity to lift people’s mental states, even after periods of inactivity. As we explore in Synchronised Care, the shift towards such Emotional Fitness is gaining momentum, leading to a rise in fitness brands exploring ways of supporting people’s whole wellbeing.