Owners and fitness members want gyms reopened, saying mental health main driver

Gyms across the province sit quiet and empty, however, members and gym owners have been vocal as of late.

Various online petitions are making their rounds; calling to reopen gyms and fitness centres.

Gym-goers say working out is more than for the physical health benefits, but also for mental well being.

“I’m in the construction industry,” says Hieland Mayzes who is a member and trainer at Gas City Crossfit, “There’s a whole world of things going on outside of that due to the economy and COVID-19 of course, so when you get to come here (Crossfit) you leave it all outside, you come in have some fun.”

According to the CMHA southeast region programs manager Erin Reeder, working out creates a strong body-mind connection.

“There’s been lots of research around this that shows exercise can actually be almost as effective as medication in reducing depression symptoms. So it relieves depression, it helps with anxiety and stress, it gets rid of some of that tension that’s in our bodies,” she said.

Over the last year, fitness facilities have adapted for their clients to offer online training and equipment rentals, but they say it’s not the same as working out in-person.

Head coach and owner of Gas City Crossfit Kaine Dick supports clients who workout for many reasons. “I have seniors here that workout to build their bone density up. I have people who come to the gym that have a stressful day at work and just want to see their friends and workout and have a good session.”

“They (gyms) play a big role in our community,” Ally DeWolfe, owner of Back Alley Fitness adds, “Both from the physical wellness standpoint, as well as a mental and emotional wellness standpoint. And I think that being closed for this long is taking its toll on people.”

Just like adults, youth also want to get back to the sports they love according to the President of the Medicine Hat Ringette Association Jay Pinnell.

“Kids get on the ice and they forget about everything, they just go have fun. And when you can’t do that it’s not good, it’s a bit troubling in a sense but I mean we’re basically having to follow the restrictions that are there,” Pinnel said.

The CMHA reminds us that even five minutes of activity has it’s benefits and says we might have to get creative during this time. Which can even be getting out for fresh air and sunshine.

“Going outside and doing activities that you haven’t done before. Try snowshoeing, skiing, taking regular walks, they don’t have to be long walks,” Reeder told Chat News.

Gym owners are hoping the government will give a directive on opening soon, so they can get back to their community of members and continue to provide physical and mental health support at their facilities.

by Chantal Wagner

Owners and fitness members want gyms reopened, saying mental health main driver

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