Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 28, 2026

Exergaming in Older People Living with HIV Improves Balance, Mobility and Ameliorates Some Aspects of Frailty
Published on: October 6, 2016
Bidirectional association between mental health and physical activity in older adults: Whitehall II prospective
Siri Steinmo1, Gareth Hagger-Johnson2, Lion Shahab3
1Department of Clinical, Education and Health Psychology, University College, London, UK.
Objective:
To investigate longitudinal and bidirectional associations between mental health and physical activity from midlife into old age.
Methods:
Analysis was based on data from 6909 participants (aged 45 to 69 in 1997/99) from the Whitehall II cohort in the UK. Latent growth curve analysis examined possible bidirectional associations between the SF-36 Mental Component Summary and weekly physical activity measured at three time-points over ten years.
Results:
Mental health and physical activity were associated at baseline (β=0.17, 95% CI 0.13, 0.21) and associations persisted into old age. In the latent growth curve model, both mental health and physical activity increased and their rates of change 'moved together' over time (β=0.24, 95% CI 0.11, 0.37). Relatively high baseline levels of either variable were associated with slightly slower increases in the other outcome (β=-0.02, 95% CI -0.03, -0.01; β=-0.07, 95% CI -0.11, -0.13), which are thought to reflect regression to the mean. However, those who started high on either variable remained the most advantaged at end of follow-up.
Conclusions:
From midlife to old age, greater physical activity is associated with better mental health and vice versa. These findings suggest persistent longitudinal and bidirectional associations between physical activity and mental health.
Related Concept Videos
Lifestyle Factors and Health
Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity, whether through structured exercise or casual activities like walking, biking, or dancing, is a cornerstone of a...
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques III
The Role of Exercise in Stress Management
Regular physical activity is essential for reducing stress and promoting cardiovascular health. Exercise strengthens the heart, enhances blood flow, keeps blood vessels flexible, and helps lower blood pressure, all of which reduce the body's stress response. Research shows that adults who exercise regularly have nearly half the...
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Exercise and Cardiac Output
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be...
Social Relationships and Well-Being

