Just under seven in 10 (69%) say their dog is their primary movement motivator, more than family, celebrities and personal trainers
Dogs play a crucial role in motivating us to move and the positive impact this has on our mental wellbeing, according to new research.
Just under seven in 10 (69%) say their dog is their primary movement motivator, more than family, celebrities and personal trainers.
And four in five (80%) of dog owners say they are less stressed and 84% feel happier after moving with their dog.
Professor Brendon Stubbs of King’s College London analysed State of Mind scores – an ASICS index measuring overall mental wellbeing – and found that dog owners’ scores are on average 20% higher than non-dog owners (61/100 vs. 50/100), with 4 in 5 (81%) of owners saying moving with their dog improves their mental wellbeing.
ASICS | Mind’s Best Friend
The study also found that dog owners are 35% more likely to meet physical activity guidelines, averaging 240 minutes of exercise per week.
In light of ASICS’ research, the brand has today announced a new and unexpected ambassador signing – a dog called Felix.
The brand is recognising the role of dogs, including one of the internet’s favourite dogs “Felix the Samoyed,” as the original exercise influencers.
Felix has been signed as an Ambassador and will act as the brand’s key ‘spokesperson’ to champion his love of walks, runs, and even zoomies.
Stubbs, a leading researcher in exercise and mental health, said: “ASICS’ latest research reveals just how significantly dogs influence our physical activity levels and overall State of Mind.
“The research shows dog owners are far more likely to meet recommended physical activity guidelines and have a much higher mood. In fact, 85% of dog owners feel a boost in their mood after moving with their dog.”
To honour the extraordinary role that dogs play in motivating us to move for mental wellbeing, ASICS is calling on Brits to nominate their own dogs for the chance to become official ASICS Mind’s Best Friend Ambassadors. Selected ambassadors will become ASICS’ very own doggy influencers, sharing content with the world that showcases the power of a simple walk or run to uplift our mood. Each ambassador selected by the brand will receive an official ASICS Mind’s Best Friend Ambassador kit, including branded gear and accessories and ASICS shoes for its human. To nominate your dog, fill out the application at www.asics.com/mindsbestfriend.
ASICS is encouraging the world to share how their dog motivates them to move their minds to help raise funds for mental health charities. Every post shared3 with #MindsBestFriend before 12 July 2025 will raise funds for mental health charities.
Hayley Jarvis, Head of Physical Activity at Mind, said: “At Mind, we have seen how regular physical activity can help support better mental health. However, finding the motivation to move can sometimes be challenging when you’re struggling with your mental health. Who better to help motivate people to move than our canine friends?
“Mind’s belief in the power of physical activity and celebrating our doggy pals aligns perfectly with ASICS’ commitment. We’re proud to support this campaign and look forward to inspiring people to stay active and move for their mental wellbeing.”
To support the Mind’s Best Friend campaign, local Minds will be hosting local walk events, including Teesside Mind’s Bark in the Park in Middlesbrough on Saturday 17th May. This fun event brings together hundreds of local dog owners and their families to raise awareness of mental health. For more info visit www.teessidemind.org.uk/events/bark-in-the-park-2025
ASICS’ Gary Raucher said: “No one motivates us to move for body and mind more than our canine friends. Every day around the world, dogs motivate us to lace up, get out, and move. Our mission at ASICS is to encourage as many people as possible to feel the uplifting power of movement.”
For more info visit //asics.com/mindsbestfriend
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