wellness
Exercise Reduces Anxiety: Thomastown Residents Embrace Local Fitness Resources
Regular physical activity can significantly decrease symptoms of anxiety, research shows, and Thomastown residents are taking advantage of local resources to stay active and healthy.
How we reported this
One in five Thomastown residents experience anxiety, according to a recent survey conducted by the Thomastown Community Health Centre.
This statistic matters now because the town's active wellness culture is being put to the test as residents face increased stress and pressure in their daily lives. With the growing awareness of mental health issues, it's essential for residents to find healthy ways to manage stress and anxiety. The link between exercise and anxiety reduction is well-documented, and Thomastown has numerous resources available for residents to get moving and improve their mental well-being.
Locally, the Thomastown Recreation Centre on Main Street offers yoga classes for $12 per session, while the nearby Lakeview Park has a 3km walking trail that's free and open to the public. The Thomastown Neighbourhood House on High Street also runs a weekly fitness program for seniors, which includes gentle exercises and social activities to help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Additionally, the Whittlesea Bike Trail, which passes through Thomastown, provides a scenic route for cyclists to enjoy the outdoors while getting some exercise.
Getting the Facts Straight
A study published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research found that regular exercise can reduce symptoms of anxiety by up to 43%. In Thomastown, 75% of residents report engaging in some form of physical activity at least three times a week, according to data from the 2025 Thomastown Health and Wellbeing Survey. Furthermore, a local initiative launched in January 2026, called 'Move and Mind', offers free mental health workshops and exercise classes to residents, with over 200 people attending the first session at the Thomastown Library on July 1.
As the town continues to promote healthy lifestyles and provide accessible resources for mental health support, residents can take practical steps to manage their anxiety. By incorporating regular exercise into their routine, such as a daily walk along the Plenty River or a fitness class at the local gym, residents can improve their overall wellbeing and reduce symptoms of anxiety. With the next 'Move and Mind' session scheduled for August 12 at the Thomastown Community Centre, now is the perfect time for residents to get involved and start their journey towards better mental health.