Research is informing guidance on exercise

PROFESSOR Andy Smith discusses how his research, and the work of his colleagues, is informing guidance from leading mental health organisations.

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"WE'RE in the middle of a mental health crisis - hundreds of thousands of people are currently on waiting lists for mental health services. At Edge Hill University, we've long recognised the power of sport, physical activity and movement to support good mental health and wellbeing.

Whether it’s a walk in the park, a group fitness class or a structured exercise programme, movement can offer a vital way for people to manage stress, build resilience and connect with others.

As beneficial as sport and physical activity can be, to unlock real success providers must ensure the sessions they offer are always safe, inclusive and tailored to individual needs, especially when supporting people experiencing mental health problems.

New guidance from Mind

That’s why my colleagues and I are proud, on behalf of the Centre for Mental Health, Sport and Physical Activity Research (CMSPR) at Edge Hill University, to have contributed to Mind's new guidance on safe and effective practice for those delivering physical activity and mental health programmes.