It is said that exercise is great for reducing weight and, therefore, reducing the possibility of developing serious health problems such as a heart attack, stroke or metabolic disorders.

But when it comes to mental health, people often assume it all comes down to having a positive mindset.

The reality is that how you feel inside affects your health and by that same token, your level of fitness will affect how you feel.

Here are some of the many benefits of physical exercise for mental health.

1. A sense of achievement

Those who struggle mentally can find it difficult to maintain a healthy daily routine. They may feel depressed about that pile of ironing that has been left for days but when they actually finish it, they feel exhilarated.

The same goes for exercise. It seems like a grind beforehand but makes people feel happier afterward.

It releases endorphins and other chemicals in the body that make people feel a little high and happy, without drugs. The mood is lifted and depression reduced and people feel more able to take on the world.

They are boosted when they incorporate exercise into their daily routines. And it is not necessary to buy sports equipment. Many people pay to go to the gym while others create one at home.

2. Increased connection

Going to the gym or a sports club increases the possibility of making new friends or just having a chat with someone. And there is the boost from winning and overcoming challenges. People are also reminded that there are more things going on in the world than just their issues.

Facebook groups devoted to keeping fit are also an option. They are like communities, devoted to sharing tips and encouraging one another along the journey.

Once again, it is a chance to make new friends and communicate.

3. Better sleep and self-esteem

Many people go to bed with a tired brain but their bodies are still energised. Others depend on prescription sleeping tablets and antidepressants to get through the night.

The great news is that physical exercise is equally effective, without any of the side effects.

Those who are unfit and overweight often feel gloomy about themselves and their appearance. Regular exercise will help shed a few pounds and improve one’s general appearance.

When people look great, they are more likely to feel great. They will also be more active and mobile and more willing to go out in the evenings, which could have been a struggle previously. Exercise can help people of all age groups.

4. It is fun and it reduces medical risks

People do not have to do things they dislike to get fit. For those who appreciate nature, a brisk, half-hour walk five times a week would be sufficient.

A basketball hoop is easy enough to set up in the garden and all the family can have fun playing together.

Music lovers could consider doing dance routines. When the body is disciplined to keep time, it will help with fitness levels. The mind switches off during the process, which can be great for breaking cycles of negative thoughts.

Dementia, memory loss or Alzheimer’s are illnesses that fit people are up to a third less likely to develop. Even if it is too late and someone already has such a condition, the process can be slowed with exercise.

5. Helps lessen effects of ADHD, PTSD and depression

The best-known treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the use of drugs such as Ritalin or Adderall.

Interestingly, tests have shown that regular exercise can be equally effective because focus and attention improve when levels of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin are boosted through workouts.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can trap people in automatic trigger responses after a traumatic event.

When people do outdoor sports, they are more likely to become mindful of their bodies, including their temperature, heart rate and how their muscles are feeling. This mindfulness can detach people from the PTSD responses and liberate them.

It is possible to reduce the likelihood of experiencing major depression by a quarter through exercise.

Those who do not exercise regularly should see a doctor before embarking on any exercise programme, especially if there are existing medical conditions, including eating disorders or heart problems.

For many people, the benefits of keeping fit can be amazing, both for their bodies and their minds.

Dennis Relojo-Howell is the founder of Psychreg and host of The DRH Show. You can connect with him on Twitter @drelojo_howell