The Impact of ASU Group Fitness Classes on Participant Mental Health: a Cross Comparison Between Strength, Cardiovascular, and Mind-body Exercises

Exercise has been shown to offer an array of mental health benefits including heightened confidence, intellectual functioning, sexual satisfaction, and reduced anxiety and depression. Various exercise formats, including strength training, cardiovascular exercise, and mind-body exercise, all have been shown to enhance mental well-being. Notably, group fitness classes have been found to have a significantly greater impact on mental-wellness than individual exercise sessions. Given the current college mental health crisis and lack of holistic lifestyle interventions, this study aims to apply this understanding to initiate positive reform. A cross comparison was conducted between strength, cardiovascular, and mind-body group fitness classes at the Tempe SDFC. Before and after mood surveys were administered to highlight potential changes in depression, anxiety, anger, and positive feelings. Across 26 participants, 16 strength, 19 cardiovascular, and 16 mind-body classes with corresponding before and after surveys were successfully completed. The results revealed significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and anger across all class types. Interestingly, significant increases in positive feelings were only observed for cardiovascular classes. These findings suggest that campus group fitness classes may serve as a valuable resource for improving student mental-well being. On a broader scale, this study contributes to increasing awareness about the effectiveness of exercise as a powerful tool to promote mental wellness alongside physical health.