Mental health affects every one of us, directly or indirectly. And while conversations around mental health are becoming more open, the statistics remind us just how important it is to keep showing up for ourselves and each other.

In Australia, thousands of lives are lost to suicide every year and many more people silently battle anxiety, depression, stress, loneliness and burnout. One of the most powerful and accessible tools we have to support mental wellbeing ismovement.

Research continues to show a strong link between exercise and improved mental health.

Regular physical activity has been shown to:

• Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression

• Improve mood and emotional resilience

• Increase energy and sleep quality

• Reduce stress levels

• Build confidence and self-esteem

• Strengthen social connection and community

In fact, some studies have shown that regular exercise can be as effective as antidepressant treatment for mild-to-moderate depression.

But movement is about more than just physical fitness. Training gives us routine, connection, accountability and a sense of achievement, all things that play a huge role in mental wellbeing.

That’s one of the reasons initiatives likeThe Push-Up Challengehave had such a powerful impact across Australia.

Since 2017, the challenge has:

• Engaged over 1 million participants

• Raised more than $70 million for mental health initiatives

• Helped reduce stigma around mental illness

• Encouraged thousands of important conversations

This June, our studio is proud to get involved and encourage our community to move with purpose, support one another and prioritise both physical and mental wellbeing.