Over the years, countless studies have shown that exercise is good for your mental health. And yet, most therapy appointments are sedentary, with patients either seated or lying down on the stereotypical couch.

I wondered if any researchers or clinicians were trying to change that—and it turns out that they are. I spoke with clinicians from a mental-health practice in Illinois that combines therapy with everything from long walks to basketball to ping pong, as well as researchers who have found that this type of active approach can boost clients’ mental health more than treatment alone.

Starting an exercise program can be extremely difficult for someone already struggling with mental-health issues. But, the researchers told me, it doesn’t need to be intense. Almost any amount and type of exercise can enhance the benefits of standard mental-health treatment, whether it’s delivered during a therapy appointment or afterward.

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