“Exercise professionals are often among the few health and wellbeing professionals that people see frequently….
“At 67%, mental wellbeing is the second most popular reason Kiwis exercise, behind only overall health at 78%…”
“Exercise is shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and build resilience, but it can also create something equally important, connection… We want men to know that it’s okay to talk about how they’re feeling and to seek help when they need it.”
As Aotearoa marks Men’s Health Week and Men’s Mental Health Month this June, ExerciseNZ is encouraging Kiwi men to prioritise their mental wellbeing and reminding New Zealanders that regular physical activity remains one of the most accessible and evidence-based ways to support positive mental health.
The message comes at a time when mental wellbeing remains a significant challenge across New Zealand. Recent data from the Ministry of Health and the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission shows that one in seven adults experienced high or very high psychological distress.
For men, the challenge is particularly concerning. Around three-quarters of suicides in New Zealand are men, and recent provisional figures show 474 male suspected self-inflicted deaths in 2024/25 compared with 156 females.
________________________________
ExerciseNZ Chief Executive Richard Beddie says while exercise is not a replacement for professional mental health treatment, it is one of the most accessible and evidence-based tools available to support mental wellbeing.
“Exercise professionals are often among the few health and wellbeing professionals that people see frequently. They create trusted relationships, provide social connection, encourage healthy habits, and help people build confidence through movement.”
Research consistently shows that physically active people experience better mental wellbeing and lower rates of anxiety and depression. ExerciseNZ’s own consumer research has repeatedly shown that improving mental wellbeing is one of the leading reasons New Zealanders exercise, with many gym and exercise facility members reporting reduced stress, improved mood, increased energy levels, and stronger social connections as key benefits of regular participation.
Additionally, ExerciseNZ research shows that Kiwis understand the importance of exercise when it comes to mental health.
“At 67%, mental wellbeing is the second most popular reason Kiwis exercise, behind only overall health at 78%. That’s a positive sign, showing New Zealanders increasingly understand that exercise isn’t just about physical fitness, it’s also one of the most effective ways to support mental health and wellbeing”, says Beddie.
________________________________
Importantly, exercise facilities provide more than exercise alone. They offer community, routine, accountability, and opportunities for social interaction, factors known to support mental wellbeing and reduce feelings of isolation. ExerciseNZ believes that movement is one of the simplest and most effective starting points. Beddie concludes;
“Exercise is shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and build resilience, but it can also create something equally important, connection. Sometimes the conversation that starts during a walk, a workout, or after a class can be the first step towards getting support. We want men to know that it’s okay to talk about how they’re feeling and to seek help when they need it.”
ExerciseNZ is encouraging employers, communities, whānau, and health professionals to use Men’s Mental Health Month as an opportunity to start conversations around supporting the overall health and wellbeing of men in Aotearoa through exercise.