Men’s mental health is just as important as physical health. However, many men still find it difficult to talk about how they feel. Regular exercise can support men’s mental health by reducing stress, improving mood and building confidence. Just as importantly, the gym can provide a place to connect with others.

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This Movember, we spoke to Matt Skeats, Gym Manager at Fitness4Less Colchester. He shared his thoughts on exercise, friendship and the importance of speaking up when life gets difficult.

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How Exercise Supports Men’s Mental Health

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Exercise can benefit both the body and mind. For example, regular physical activity can help reduce stress and improve your mood. It can also give you a routine and something positive to work towards.

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Matt believes exercise has a powerful effect on overall wellbeing. As he explains:

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“Regular exercise has a massive positive impact on mental health from both a physiological and psychological aspect.”

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In addition, Matt has noticed how exercise can influence the way people approach everyday challenges. He says:

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“People who train tend to be display a more positive outlook in life and display resilience in adverse situations in my experience.”

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This is one reason why finding an activity you enjoy can be so valuable. Whether you prefer lifting weights, running or attending a class, regular movement can help you build a positive routine.

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The Gym Can Build Strong Connections

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The gym is not only a place to improve your physical fitness. It can also provide opportunities to meet people, build friendships and feel part of a community.

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For some men, these connections can be just as important as their training. Matt highlights this point:

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“The social aspect of being a member of a gym and like minded community is huge and provides as much benefit as the physical gains for some men.”

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Furthermore, shared fitness goals can make it easier to connect with others. You might train alongside the same people each week or become familiar with other members.

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Matt believes this can create an environment where men feel more comfortable opening up:

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“I think when groups of men are training together with shared goals they become more comfortable in sharing feelings and emotions with people that they see regularly without fear of being judged.”

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Therefore, even a quick conversation between sets can matter. A friendly face or familiar training partner can help someone feel less alone.

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Breaking the Stigma Around Men’s Mental Health

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Despite growing awareness, some men still feel uncomfortable discussing their mental health. This can be linked to outdated ideas about masculinity and the pressure to appear strong.

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Matt believes this is partly generational. He explains:

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“I think it is a generational thing to a degree where some men feel it is not a masculine trait or is a sign of weakness to admit they are struggling with their mental health.”

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However, asking for support is not a weakness. In fact, speaking honestly about your feelings can be an important step towards feeling better.

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Matt has a simple message for anyone who feels they must deal with everything alone:

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“You are never on your own. There is always someone willing to listen and help and sharing an issue with someone can often put it in perspective more.”

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That reminder is important. You do not need to wait until things become overwhelming before reaching out to someone you trust.

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How Exercise Helped Matt Through Difficult Times

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Exercise can provide structure and a positive outlet during challenging periods. For Matt, sport and physical activity have been part of his life for many years.

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He also shared how important exercise became during some deeply difficult experiences:

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“Exercise and sport has always been a part of my life but I really found it a great outlet through a difficult time after my son died and a little later on when my daughter had a brain tumour.”

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His experience highlights how important it can be to have healthy ways to cope with difficult emotions. Of course, exercise is not a replacement for professional mental health support. However, it can form part of a wider approach to wellbeing.

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Matt continues to make time for exercise as part of his own routine. He says:

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“I ensure that I train 5 days a week which is a great stress reducer. My weekend long runs are a very cathartic way to unwind.”

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His advice to other men is equally straightforward:

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“Ensure you workout regularly and don’t be afraid to share if you are having a tough time mentally at any point.”

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Simple Ways to Support Your Mental Wellbeing

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You do not need to make major changes to start looking after yourself. Instead, try building a few simple habits into your week:

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• Find an activity you enjoy. Choose weights, running, walking or a group class.
• Build a routine. Set realistic goals and make time for regular movement.
• Connect with others. Train with a friend or get to know people at the gym.
• Check in with yourself. Notice how you feel and give yourself time to rest.
• Speak up when you need support. Talk to someone you trust or seek professional help.

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For more ideas, read our guide, How Exercise Helps Mental Health: 7 Simple Ways to Get Started. You can also explore How to Stay Consistent With Your Workouts When Motivation Drops.

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This Movember, remember that men’s mental health deserves attention all year round. Exercise can help, but so can a conversation, a supportive community and asking for help when you need it.

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Ready to take the first step?

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Join Fitness4Less and find a routine that works for you. Sign up online or download the Fitness4Less app to get started.

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