The Mental Health in Motion Report found that nearly three-quarters (72%) of adults with a mental health condition say being physically active helps them remain well and less likely to take time off work. However, only 16% of respondents felt able to meet the Chief Medical Officers’ recommended activity levels of 150 minutes a week.

The findings highlight a pressing gap between the proven benefits of exercise and the barriers people face in maintaining regular activity. More than three in five people (61%) said they would join a gym or leisure facility if their employer offered membership as a workplace benefit, underlining the opportunity for businesses to support staff wellbeing through physical activity.

As sponsor of the research, Alliance Leisure is committed to working with partners across the sector to ensure these opportunities become reality. Sarah Watts, CEO of Alliance Leisure, said:

“This important report shines a light on the vital role exercise can play in supporting workplace mental health. With 72% of people with mental health conditions saying that being active helps them stay in work, it’s clear that physical activity is a powerful tool for wellbeing and resilience. Yet, with only 16% meeting the recommended activity levels, there is a huge opportunity, and responsibility, for all of us to help bridge that gap.

At Alliance Leisure, we welcome this research and are committed to creating environments and opportunities that make physical activity more accessible, enjoyable and achievable for everyone.”

The report also reveals that mental health is a key driver for participation in fitness. Of those surveyed with a mental health condition, 85% said their main reason for joining a gym or leisure facility was to improve their mental health and wellbeing. Other motivations included improving mood, reducing stress, and clearing the mind.

The research comes at a crucial time for the UK, with workplace sickness costing the economy £103 billion a year. As the government looks to address this through its 10 Year Health Plan and Keep Britain Working review, ukactive is calling for initiatives such as an expanded ‘Workout from Work’ scheme to make fitness more accessible.

Alliance Leisure believes the fitness and leisure sector can play a central role in this mission. By designing welcoming spaces, supporting inclusive programmes, and working hand-in-hand with employers and communities, the company aims to break down barriers to activity and support mental wellbeing nationwide.

Alliance Leisure stands alongside ukactive, Mind, and sector partners to champion the message that movement matters—not only for physical health but also for resilience, productivity, and a happier workforce.

For more information and to read the full report, Mental Health in Motion: Consumer Perspectives on Mental Health in Fitness and Leisure, visit ukactive’s website.