More than half of Poles admit that their mental and physical health problems have worsened during the pandemic. They try to overcome these problems by willingly returning to fitness clubs and the gym. The increase in attendance at sports facilities is reflected in statistics and is the result of both a desire to take care of health and an up-to-date offer of fitness clubs adapted to the new, pandemic needs of those involved in sports.
- After the pandemic, Poles are eager to return to physical activity. This is due to the fact that more than 50 per cent. of us at the time were experiencing physical and mental health problems. 40 percent experienced increased exposure to stress, which led not only to mental problems, but also to problems related to our body, such as the accumulation of tension. Every third Pole has a deterioration in well-being and body performance, and every fourth complained of back pain or problems related to the spine, said Tomasz Groń from Benefit Systems’ fitness department.
Poles’ health problems
As he points out, the health problems that Poles faced during the COVID-19 pandemic are now trying to mitigate through increased activity, including in fitness clubs. This is also supported by statistics. In the first three months of this year, the number of customers in clubs owned by Benefit Systems (including Zdrofit, FitFabric and Fitness Academy) increased by 17%. annually. On the other hand, the results of the latest edition of the MultiSport Index 2022 survey showed that gym or fitness club activities recorded the largest jump in popularity of any sport compared to the previous year.
- After a long absence of fitness clubs, we miss the place where you can take care of your health, where there is excellent equipment, trainers and a good atmosphere, - says Tomas Groń.
Mental Health Exercises
Interestingly, over the past two pandemic years, the reasons why Poles work out in fitness clubs have changed significantly. The MultiSport Index 2022 survey shows that in addition to taking care of their condition and figure, they are primarily driven by the desire to take care of their mental health.
- Almost 90 percent of Poles are aware that regular activity affects mental health and improves our functioning, and at the same time can prevent, among other things, the diseases of civilization, - said Tomasz Groń.
- Clients also seek to take advantage of strengthening workouts aimed at a specific body part: buttocks, abdomen. Body&mind and general fitness classes are also very popular, adds Adrian Oleksiak, sports trainer at Zdrofit.
As he emphasizes, after a period of isolation, it becomes increasingly important that in the gym or in sports activities you can meet people with similar interests and goals. And for many, group classes are a good additional motivation. Another advantage of exercising in fitness clubs is that you can work out under the supervision of a trainer and use professional equipment, which increases safety.
- We, as coaches and instructors, provide the safety and professionalism that people expect. Qualified staff guides and motivates people to systematic physical activity, says Adrian Oleksiak.
Source: Wprost
