A recent study reveals that just 15 minutes of daily exercise is significantly more effective at reducing stress than attending a costly wellness retreat. Conducted by researchers from King’s College London and commissioned by sportswear brand ASICS, the study involved participants from the UK, US, and Australia, all of whom had taken part in a wellness holiday within the past year.
The research assessed how incorporating a brief daily movement break affected mental wellbeing. Participants began by completing a survey regarding their previous retreat experiences and perceived benefits. For one week, they added a 15-minute exercise routine to their daily schedule, tracking their mood throughout the process.
At the conclusion of the trial, findings showed a remarkable 21% improvement in mental wellbeing among participants, eclipsing the benefits they had derived from their previous expensive getaways. Notably, 71% of those involved deemed daily movement more effective at alleviating stress, while 65%73% claimed that the mental health benefits from their daily exercise routine lasted longer compared to those experienced after their vacations.
Redefining Wellness
The research was overseen by Dr. Brendon Stubbs, who emphasized the significant impact of just a few minutes of movement on mental health. He stated, “It’s incredible to see the impact 15 minutes of movement can have on mental wellbeing. The trial shows that small movement breaks can boost mood and reduce stress more effectively than a wellness holiday.”
The study also highlighted that while participants had traveled an average of over 1,500 km to attend wellness retreats, 63% reported not meeting their expectations, and 72% felt that the benefits diminished shortly after returning home. This raises questions about the long-term value of such retreats compared to the ongoing benefits of regular physical activity.
In a broader initiative, ASICS conducted a global survey involving 11,000 individuals who had participated in wellness retreats. The results reinforced the notion that wellness should not be tied to considerable expenses or extensive travel.
Embracing Everyday Movement
In response to the findings, ASICS has appointed actress and wellness advocate Natasha Rothwell as its Everyday Escape Concierge. Rothwell emphasizes that wellness can be easily integrated into daily life. “Your Everyday Escape could be a walk, a stretch, a dance in your kitchen. It’s free, it’s simple, and it’s yours. Wellness shouldn’t be a luxury. It should be something we can all access, every day,” she stated.
The campaign encourages individuals to recognize the power of movement available right outside their doors, challenging the notion that significant investments are necessary for mental and physical health.
Dr. Stubbs reinforced the participants’ commitment to prioritizing movement in their lives, with 81% indicating they would continue implementing movement breaks instead of opting for another retreat. “A week away may give a short-term boost, but exercise delivers long-term benefits,” he concluded.
This research serves as a reminder that effective mental health strategies can be simple, cost-effective, and right at our fingertips.
