Jenny Edwards, CEO of the Mental Health Foundation, recently said exercise can play a big part in improving your mental health.

At Badminton England, we work closely with a number of leading mental health charities and the NHS are now recommending badminton as part of a patient's recovery.

Research conducted by the Mental Health Foundation shows that by doing two-and-half hours of brisk exercise every week can cut the chances of depression by a third.

And court time helps to boost patient’s energy levels and improve their health and fitness whilst increasing confidence and self esteem.

Here are some reasons why badminton is particularly good for your mental health:

The social interaction of a game helps build confidence and results in positive feelings after a session on court. Find your nearest court here

Helps reduce stress, anxiety and depression by taking your mind off everyday life.
Improves concentration levels and helps you become more focused, alert and agile. If you play doubles, you need good teamwork and awareness of what is going on around you.
Playing badminton engages your brain in a positive way by having to think about what you’re doing - whether it’s deciding where to serve, reacting quickly to a smash, or where to stand on court.
Playing badminton increases endorphins, which are the brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters – you feel this after winning a particularly long rally and of course it’s always nice to win a match!
People who play the game for an hour daily are more attentive, adjusted and also have more active cardiovascular and neuro-humoral responses to mental stress.

By Akakpo Kakai Snr/Ashh Fm