Motion for your mind: physical activity for mental health promotion, protection and care (2019)

There is limited evidence and attention relating to the potential effects of physical activity on mental health. A review of the evidence for the benefits of physical activity for people with certain mental health conditions – depression, schizophrenia and dementia – indicates improved mood, slowed cognitive decline, delayed disease onset, increased muscle strength, better physical fitness, control of existing NCDs and a decreased likelihood of developing other NCDs such as diabetes and obesity.