5-Reps is a 6-week proactive mental fitness programme designed specifically to help men optimise their mental wellbeing and performance by developing healthy routines and schedules.

Listen to programme founder Prof. Paul Galdas outline the key features of Performance Habits here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ox8DkJFZoMM

The 5 Reps Programme is based on a clinically proven approach called Behavioural Activation (BA). The idea behind BA is that by deliberately practicing certain behaviours and habits, people can “activate” a positive mindset and emotional state. It is a practical, action-oriented approach that is focused on the scheduling of habits and behaviours to meet targets that build mental fitness.

5-Reps has been developed by a team of world-leading academics and clinicians at the University of York in partnership with current players and coaches at Leeds United, with funding provided by Movember. The team is led by world-renowned men’s health researcher, Professor Paul Galdas. Read more about Paul's work here.

Poor mental health is now widely recognised as a significant threat to the wellbeing of men. High expectations, pressure to perform, career uncertainty and instability, coupled with an intense environment can often lead men to experience mental wellbeing struggles.

Traditionally, men have also been less likely to reach out for support for mental health issues. This is due to a number of reasons including stigma, fear of discrimination, and the traditional ‘strong male’ stereotype still prevalent in our society and amplified in many professional sporting cultures – the idea that asking for help is a sign of weakness.

The 5-Reps team are experts in the development of accessible mental fitness interventions that overcome these barriers, empowering men to develop the tools needed to handle the stresses and strains of professional football and reach their potential in the game and everyday life.

Approaches to tacking mental wellbeing in modern life have tended to focus on campaigns to raise awareness or workshops to develop resilience and mental health literacy. As an individual, confidential, tailored support package, 5-Reps is unique in offering an evidence-based programme specifically designed for men today.

Unlike commonly used mental fitness approaches such as group-based support or talking therapy, 5-Reps focuses on behaviour and lifestyle change, giving players the tools to maintain good mental wellbeing. It is simple, practical, and highly confidential, making it ideally suited for modern men.

Read about 5-Reps' participants perspectives of the programme below.

We’re looking for additional professional football clubs to take part in Performance Habits in season 2025/26. We’re also looking for current or former professional footballers to be trained as certified Performance Habits Coaches. Reach out via the details on the ‘Contact’ page on this site.