A Japanese study has found that even slow, easy running for just 10 minutes can boost mood and improve focus, challenging the assumption that vigorous exercise is needed for mental health benefits. Researchers from the University of Tsukuba monitored 24 healthy young adults who completed either a leisurely treadmill jog or a rest period, discovering improved performance on attention and self-control tests after the exercise, accompanied by increased brain activity in the prefrontal cortex.

The study required participants to run at speeds of 1.9 to 3.7 mph with average heart rates of 105 to 107 beats per minute—essentially a gentle pace. The mood and focus improvements persisted even after participants' heart rates returned to baseline, though experts emphasise this represents a temporary effect rather than a cure-all and cannot substitute for medical treatment in those with depression or anxiety. The findings are limited by the small sample size of only healthy young adults measured after a single session, meaning results cannot necessarily be extrapolated to older adults, less fit individuals, or those with existing health conditions.