Digital exercise programmes could save NHS money

Good Boost has published new findings showing that digital exercise programmes can support adults with joint and muscle problems while reducing the cost burden on NHS physiotherapy services. The study, which analysed more than 40,000 exercise sessions from over 4400 people, found that Good Boost’s personalised digital exercise programmes helped participants move better, feel happier and reduce anxiety after just six weeks.

At 12-week and 26-week follow-ups, more than a third of participants reported reduced pain, while around 47% achieved a clinically meaningful improvement in physical function. More than 65% reported a positive improvement in their condition overall.

The findings are significant for the NHS at a time when more than 20 million people in the UK live with musculoskeletal disorders and many patients face waits of more than 14 weeks for physiotherapy appointments.

“These findings highlight the huge potential of digitally-enabled, personalised physical activity to support people living with long-term musculoskeletal conditions,” explains Dr Hussain Al-Zubaidi, Royal College of General Practitioners lifestyle and physical activity lead.

“By combining evidence-based movement with community delivery, programmes like Good Boost can improve outcomes, widen access, and reduce pressure on NHS services. This is exactly the kind of prevention-focused, neighbourhood health approach the NHS urgently needs.”

“This isn’t a one-size-fits-all app,” says Ben Wilkins, CEO of Good Boost. “It personalises movement and responds to real-time feedback.”