ASICS Research Links Decline in Movement to Mental Health Issues Ahead of World Mental Health Day

To address this issue, ASICS has launched a short documentary titled *Human Nature*, narrated by Sigourney Weaver. The film examines how modern conveniences affect daily movement and encourages viewers to incorporate more physical activity into their lives.

The research surveyed 34,000 individuals across 31 countries and found that 53% of adults do not meet recommended physical activity guidelines. ASICS collaborated with experts to create a Movement Conservation Status, inspired by ecological conservation principles and aligned with established physical activity recommendations. This status categorizes weekly movement as Active, At Risk, or Endangered.

Among respondents, 23% were classified as Endangered, participating in less than 30 minutes of exercise weekly. ASICS estimates that by 2035, the number of adults classified as At Risk or Endangered could increase from 53% to 56%, translating to approximately 2.3 billion people.

The survey also indicated a correlation between movement levels and mental wellbeing. Those in the Endangered category reported an average State of Mind score of 60 out of 100, compared to 71 for Active individuals. Endangered participants reported feeling less energized, composed, and focused, and experienced higher stress levels.

Young adults reported some of the lowest activity levels, with over half of those aged 18-24 failing to meet recommended activity guidelines. Among this group, 92% reported adverse effects such as low mood, elevated stress, or poor sleep quality.

The research highlights the impact of modern lifestyle choices, with nearly 64% of respondents stating that convenience enables them to remain inactive for entire days. Over 40% said they could comfortably spend three or more days without leaving their homes. Those who frequently went a full day without leaving home had lower State of Mind scores and were twice as likely to be categorized as Endangered.

However, research showed that even 15 minutes of movement can significantly enhance mental wellbeing. David Raichlen, a professor of biology and anthropology at the University of Southern California, stated that our modern environment has made movement less necessary, but noted the vital role that regular physical activity plays in promoting both physical and mental health.

*Human Nature* presents a light-hearted view of individuals in increasingly convenient settings. With Weaver’s narration mimicking traditional nature documentaries, it portrays how comforts like sofas and screens can displace physical activity, reminding viewers that movement is inherent to our nature.

Gary Raucher, ASICS global head of marketing, remarked that for over 75 years, the company has held the view that movement benefits both the body and the mind, and ASICS aims to inspire individuals to engage in at least 15 minutes of activity to reap the rewards of even minor physical efforts.

For World Mental Health Day, ASICS invites individuals to participate in its “15 Minutes to Thrive” initiative and become part of the Movement Conservationist community.