People around the world are increasingly investing time in strengthening their mental health. Myzone CEO of EMEA, David Stalker, looks at how operators can support members to improve this aspect of their wellbeing

Physical activity is often associated with the benefits it brings to our physical health, such as weight management, improved cardiovascular function and increased strength and flexibility. However, the benefits of activity extend far beyond just the physical.

Research shows regular physical activity can have a profound impact on mental and social wellbeing as well. For example, it can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve cognitive function and boost self-esteem.

When considering holistic wellbeing, there are the benefits to social health, too. It provides opportunities for social interaction, promotes teamwork and communication and fosters a sense of community.

By providing guidance, motivation and resources to support every individual in their journey towards a more active lifestyle, the fitness industry is helping them achieve their personal fitness goals and contributing to their overall wellbeing and quality of life.

In addition to that, by creating a supportive and inclusive fitness community, as fitness professionals, we can help individuals feel empowered and motivated to continue making positive changes in their lives, leading to a healthier, happier and more connected society.

Does exercise really give a post-workout buzz?
During physical activity, endorphins are released, which promote feelings of pleasure and wellbeing and other feel-good chemicals in the brain. This is why you often experience the classic post-workout high and see it in members.

Different types of physical activity can affect endorphin release and improve mood immediately post-activity. Aerobic exercise has been shown to enhance the release of these chemicals, and while strength training can also occasion similar release levels, the brain benefits are slightly more delayed. Likewise, yoga and less intensive exercises can also impact positively, particularly when it comes to mindfulness.

This means that by getting members moving in any heart rate zone, regardless of their preferred method, you can impact their mood positively. So, don’t solely go for the higher exertions, be confident in delivering a thought-out mix of intensities in your training.

The secret to stress reduction and relaxation
Regular physical activity has also been shown to reduce stress and stress-related symptoms, such as headaches and muscle tension. However, activity triggers the body’s fight or flight response, which causes an increase in heart rate, blood pressure, and adrenaline levels.

Regular exercise can help to reduce the intensity of this response over time, making individuals more resilient to stress. During and immediately after exercise, there’s increased blood flow to the brain, which can help to regulate the stress response and promote relaxation.

Nonetheless, too much exercise can increase stress if appropriate recovery is not given. Again, confirming the importance of monitoring your members’ effort levels and educating them on why lower-intensity exercise is as beneficial as high intensity when programmed well.

Create a sense of connectedness and support
Physical activity such as team training or exercise classes often involves socialising with others. This social interaction can foster a sense of community and belonging, which as humans we instinctively crave, and results in greater feelings of happiness.

This emphasises the benefit of creating a community within your club where your members feel comfortable and supported. A simple way to do this is through engaging with members in a personalised way, such as knowing their names or when they were last active. This data can be made easier to access through working with the right technology partner.

Challenges and a healthy sense of competition also expand that network effect when it comes to bringing people together, so long as they’re inclusive in their competitive nature. Movement is always fun when more people are involved.

It’s important to note that this aspect of community and the positive social impacts can be created by all staff interacting with members. From sales to support and from the front desk, to trainers.

Why we all need goal setting for improved wellness
Setting members’ fitness goals can be a great way to support their wellness; by increasing their sense of accomplishment, reducing stress and anxiety and increasing motivation and focus, it gives them a sense of control over their health and wellbeing.

It’s not just a one-and-done, though. These goals for members and clients require a personalised approach, as factors such as age, lifestyle, preferences and motivations should be considered to create achievable goals with the above benefits.

The goal should be achievable, but tough to ensure they achieve the gained confidence and accomplishment. It should be something that can be easily measured pre-, during and post-achievement, such as a baseline fitness test or recovery after an exercise bout. This can be tricky to deliver at scale and may require a technology partner, but the results are tangible.

Build and nurture your ultimate inclusive community
In summary, physical activity not only benefits our physical health but also our mental and social wellbeing. Engaging in any physical activity can release feel-good chemicals in the brain, reduce stress and stress-related symptoms and foster a sense of community and belonging.

As fitness professionals, we can create a supportive and inclusive fitness community by providing guidance, motivation and resources to help individuals achieve their personal fitness goals.

Additionally, technology partners can make data access and measurement easier, but all staff should strive to create a sense of connectedness and support within the community.