But while many people turn to therapy or medication (rightfully so), what’s often overlooked is the role that movement plays in maintaining balance—physically and mentally.
Let’s dive into why fitness is a key habit for good mental health, explore generational patterns, and hear from Jake Mills, founder of mental health charity Chasing the Stigma, who spoke about these topics during our recent Mental Health Awareness Week webinar.
Movement Is Medicine
According to the Mental Health Foundation, nearly 38% of 18–24-year-olds say tiredness is their biggest barrier to exercising. But ironically, regular movement is one of the best ways to improve energy levels and lift mood. This same age group (16–24) is also the least aware of how exercise can impact their mental health; just 36% recognise this connection.
Yet, studies and real-world stories both tell us the same thing: fitness works.
Just 30 minutes of light physical activity has been shown to reduce stress, lower the risk of depression, and improve sleep—three pillars of mental wellbeing. Jake Mills said it best in the session:
“The best thing I’ve ever done for my mental health is looking after my physical health. I got a personal trainer and then I started getting into weightlifting and then for the last two or three years I’ve been boxing—that’s been one of the best things I’ve done.”
Fitness isn’t just a physical routine. It’s a habit that trains the mind as much as the body. And at Hussle, we see it every day: members who walk in tired and walk out lighter; not just in muscle tone, but in spirit.
Younger Generations Are Leading the Charge
Our own Hussle Fitness Survey revealed that 11% of 21–40-year-olds cite mental health as their primary motivation for working out—almost double that of over-50s (5.7%). In the 61+ group? Just 1.4%.
This generational shift presents an opportunity for employers. With Gen Z and Millennials increasingly viewing fitness as a mental health tool, it’s vital to meet them where they are—digitally connected, socially aware, and deeply motivated by purpose. But awareness alone isn’t enough. This age group faces unique pressures, from body image concerns to the constant comparison culture of social media. Over half of 16–24-year-olds say body confidence holds them back from going to the gym. And fewer than 4 in 10 know how much exercise can help their mental health. There’s clearly still work to do.
As Jake noted in the webinar, there’s a disconnect in how society talks about “mental” versus “physical” health.
“When we talk about physical health, we think exercise, fitness, smiles. But when we say mental health, we think depression, suicide, illness. One is aspiration. One is illness. That has to change.”
At Hussle, we want to flip that script.
The Social Side of Fitness and Its Mental Health Benefits
A powerful yet often under-discussed aspect of fitness is the social connection it offers. Whether it’s a lunchtime run with a colleague, a post-work gym session with a friend, or even a casual chat during yoga —these moments of connection can make a major difference to mental wellbeing. In fact, our Hussle data reveals that Gen Zs are the most socially motivated group when it comes to fitness, with 11.8% citing social connection as a driving factor, compared to just 5.9% of Boomers.
For these younger employees, who may feel disconnected in hybrid roles or early career positions, these shared activities can boost belonging and engagement. Employers who provide social fitness opportunities aren’t just promoting health; they’re strengthening community, loyalty, and workplace culture in a way that feels organic and fun.
Employers Can Help Normalise Mental Wellness
The workplace plays a powerful role in shaping how we live. We spend roughly 8 hours a day at work — that’s up to 2,000 hours a year. This means the workplace is more than just a place where we deliver on tasks. It’s a daily environment that has a significant influence on our habits, energy, and overall wellbeing. If mental health is a priority, then employers are in a uniquely strong position to help build healthier habits.
And this isn’t about launching another wellbeing week and ticking the box. It’s about weaving sustainable, easy-to-access wellness into everyday life, and fitness is one of the most effective, science-backed ways to do that. Mental health isn’t something to be squeezed in after work, but something worth investing in as part of work. When you consider how much time we spend working, why wouldn’t we make the most of that opportunity to support better mental health?
Workplace culture is shaped by what we make space for. Making room for fitness, through subsidised passes, flexible schedules, or onsite activities sends a clear message: mental health matters here. This kind of practical support often does more than grand statements or once-a-year wellness drives. It gives employees permission to prioritise themselves. It also drives better performance; people who feel good mentally are more focused, creative, and resilient. At Hussle, we believe fitness should be a normal, integrated part of working life. And with the right support, every employer can help turn mental wellness from a campaign into a daily habit.
Build a sustainable future for your employees
Ready to contribute to the betterment of your employees’ mental health? It starts with offering tools that make a genuine difference—like easy, flexible access to fitness. With Hussle’s nationwide network of gyms, pools, and wellness partners, you’re not just encouraging physical activity—you’re supporting mental resilience, lowering stress levels, and building a healthier workplace culture for your organisation.
Help your team build sustainable habits that improve their wellbeing in and out of the workplace. Request a quote today and take the first step towards a more energised, supported, and productive workforce.
