Mental Health and Physical Activity in Sport

How Does Physical Activity Improve Mental Health?

At My Club, we believe the benefits of sport go far beyond fitness. For many players, teammates, and coaches, it’s the positive effects sport has on mental health keeps them coming back.

Research shows that exercise reduces stress and heart disease, boosts mood and builds confidence. Just as important is being part of a team. Team sports give people a sense of purpose, routine, and community, especially at grassroots level.

But not everyone feels that they receive support, and grassroots sports clubs often forget this.

Why Is Mental Health Important in Grassroots Sport?

Grassroots clubs play a powerful role in local communities. But when mental health isn’t part of the conversation, problems go unnoticed. Players can feel isolated, anxious, or overwhelmed, it can often be the people we least expect.

At My Club, we work with teams across the UK to create safer, more supportive spaces in sport through the kit we provide. Here’s how:

• We provide custom-fit, inclusive sportswear that helps every athlete feel comfortable and confident
• We help clubs spark important conversations around mental health and physical activity
• We support coaches and organisers to build welcoming, non-judgemental team cultures

Because the right kit is more than just a uniform.

What Are the Mental Health Benefits of Physical Activity?

When done right, studies show that regular physical activity supports a wide range of mental health issues. You can see these in countless ways:

• Reducing symptoms of mental health conditions like depression and anxiety
• Improving sleep and concentration
• Boosting self-esteem and body confidence
• Offering a sense of identity and belonging

For many young people and adults alike, joining a club is the start of feeling like part of something bigger. But only if they feel included, from the kit they wear to the way others treat them.

What Are the Mental Health Risks in Grassroots Sport?

While sport can be hugely beneficial, it can also have negative impacts when:

• Players are excluded based on gender, body type, or ability
• Coaches place too much pressure on performance
• Kit is ill-fitting, outdated, or reinforce stereotypes
• Mental health is ignored or dismissed

These barriers can lead to anxiety, shame, or early dropouts, especially among girls, LGBTQ+ players, and neurodivergent athletes.

What Can Clubs Do to Support Mental Health Through Sport?

If you’re part of a club, there are simple but powerful actions you can take:

• Create a safe space for players to talk openly about mental health
• Design inclusive kit that fits and reflects every individual
• Nominate a mental health lead to signpost players to support
• Avoid one-size-fits-all approaches to coaching, kit, and communication
• Celebrate diversity in every part of your team

Need help making your club more inclusive through kit design? Talk to us. We’ll support you from concept to delivery.