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Research: Optimising The Effects of Physical Activity on Mental Health and Wellbeing

Posted: 14/11/2025

Physical activity is widely recognised as an effective way to promote mental health, enhance wellbeing, and prevent mental ill-health across all demographic groups. This national consensus statement from Sports Medicine Australia and the Australian Psychological Society offers evidence-based guidance on how to design and promote physical activity to maximise its mental-health benefits. It identifies five key factors that shape outcomes: the type of activity, the context in which it occurs, the method of delivery, and the surrounding physical and social environments.

The research findings highlight that enjoyment, autonomy, and social connection have a greater influence on mental-health outcomes than the specific type or intensity of exercise. Activities that are inclusive, self-directed, and socially connected (particularly those conducted outdoors) deliver the strongest positive effects on wellbeing.

For Australian universities, this statement provides a practical framework to embed physical activity as a central component of student wellbeing strategies. By integrating these principles across recreation programs, campus design, and wellbeing initiatives, universities can foster stronger engagement, belonging, retention, and overall mental health among students.

Citation: Vella, S. A., Aidman, E., Teychenne, M., et. al. Optimising the effects of physical activity on mental health and wellbeing: A joint consensus statement from Sports Medicine Australia and the Australian Psychological Society. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, Volume 26, 2023. (link)

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