A gym owners’ advice for getting active

AFTER months of closure and various operational changes, regional Victorian gyms are almost back to regular programming.

Having only opened its doors earlier this year, Bannockburn’s Pulse 24/7 gym managing director Samantha White said while it’s been a tough start to business, it’s nice to get back to work.

“We were open for 36 days and then closed for 82 and we weren’t eligible for any government funding so it’s made things a lot more difficult than usual,” she said.

“Now, when you come into our facility you have to sign a COVID declaration form, do temperature testing and follow all the COVID-safe procedures.

“Through the second half of the lockdown, we ran outdoor classes and group classes, one-on-one training outside when the weather permitted and since reopening, we now aim to have group fitness up and running 1 February.”

Although patrons visit the gym for a variety of reasons, Ms White said it’s nice to be able to reinstate a sense of normalcy through being active.

“Since reopening we have found a lot of people have signed up that have never visited a gym before and it was all about their mental state of mind,” she said.

“A lot of people have found that over this time anxiety and depression have risen.

“To be able to step back into normality or people reaching out for health and fitness, with the endorphins and the feel-good hormones released with doing so not to mention the health benefits, is great for them.”

In considering that both returning to the gym and becoming a brand-new member can both be daunting, Ms White also offered a variety of tips to help individuals in regional communities get active.

Prepare the night before

“Layout your gym clothes and pre-pack your gym bag the night before,” Ms White said.

“Doing so will not only save you time, decision making power but you are also preparing your mind for a workout several hours in advance.”

Meal prep “Plan what you are going to eat and pre-pack your tucker the night before,” she said.

“By planning your meals, you feel in control of your eating choices and help by taking that first step to break any bad habits, save money and avoid the temptation of purchasing takeout.”

Have the conversation “Talk about going to the gym and open up the conversation to others,” Ms White said.

“By saying ‘I am going to the gym’ out loud you are confirming and committing to yourself and others.

“You never know, your friend and or family may even be tempted enough to join you.”

Think about the benefits “If you are new to the gym or exercise, remember everyone is different,” she said.

“It’s about getting the body moving, which creates feel-good hormones that also benefit the mind, assists with anxiety, depression and other mental health.

“If you are not sure what to do, join a class, ask for a program or someone to show you what to do.”