THE WARRIORS FOR MENTAL HEALTH

5 Ways Fitness Professionals Are Uniquely Positioned To Support Mental Health

By Erin Phelan

Why have Canadians come back to the gym in record numbers?

It is not simply to build a better body – it is to build a better mind. The motivation for exercise has shifted dramatically in the last few years, and gyms are now destination zones to improve mental health.

And the warriors in the battle for mental health are right now cueing the music and planning the workouts - personal trainers, group fitness instructors, health coaches, and gym staff, the front-line workers who have the power to change mental health in Canada. In fact, the role fitness professionals play in promoting mental well-being is paramount to the future of Canada.

The Mental Health Crisis: A Global Challenge

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that depression and anxiety disorders are among the leading causes of disability worldwide. In Canada alone, mental illness affects approximately one in five people each year, according to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA). The economic burden of mental illness in Canada is estimated at over $50 billion annually, encompassing health care costs, lost productivity, and reduced quality of life. These staggering figures highlight the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address mental health issues, including preventive measures and early interventions. Actionable steps are necessary – and the fitness industry is prepared to lead the way.

Physical Activity and Mental Health: The Evidence

Research consistently shows that regular physical activity can significantly improve mental health. A study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that physical exercise can reduce symptoms of depression by 26%, comparable to the effects of antidepressant medications or psychotherapy. Similarly, a metaanalysis in the journal Anxiety, Stress & Coping highlighted that regular physical activity reduces anxiety symptoms, with aerobic exercise and resistance training being particularly effective.

Moreover, physical activity has been shown to enhance cognitive function, improve mood, and increase resilience to stress. These benefits are attributed to several physiological mechanisms, including the release of endorphins (often referred to as “feel-good” hormones), the reduction of cortisol (a stress hormone), and improved neuroplasticity in the brain.

The Role of Fitness Professionals in Mental Health Promotion

Fitness professionals are uniquely positioned to support mental health in several ways:

1. Access and Engagement: Fitness professionals often have more frequent and regular contact with their members and clients than traditional healthcare providers. This regular interaction allows them to build trust and rapport, making it easier to identify signs of mental health struggles and encourage positive behaviours.

2. Education and Advocacy: By educating clients about the mental health benefits of physical activity, fitness professionals can motivate individuals to engage in regular exercise. This educational role extends to promoting healthy lifestyle choices, such as balanced nutrition and adequate sleep, which are critical for mental well-being.

3. Creating Supportive Environments: Fitness centers and gyms provide a supportive environment where individuals can connect with others, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are often associated with mental health disorders. Group classes and community-based fitness activities foster social connections and create a sense of belonging, which are protective factors for mental health.

4. Tailored Interventions: Fitness professionals can design personalized exercise programs that consider individual mental health needs. For example, lowintensity activities like yoga and tai chi are known to reduce anxiety and improve mood, while highintensity interval training (HIIT) can boost energy levels and reduce symptoms of depression.

5. Early Detection and Referral: With their regular interactions and close observation, fitness professionals can often notice changes in behavior, mood, or energy levels that may indicate mental health issues. While not a substitute for professional mental health care, fitness professionals can play a critical role in early detection and referral, guiding clients toward appropriate mental health resources.

The Economic and Social Impact of Fitness Professionals in Mental Health

Investing in fitness professionals as part of the mental health care continuum has significant economic and social benefits. A study by Deloitte Access Economics estimated that every dollar invested in promoting physical activity yields an economic return of $14, from reduced healthcare costs, less absenteeism, and improved productivity. By mitigating the effects of mental illness, fitness professionals help decrease the overall burden on healthcare systems and contribute to a more resilient and productive workforce.

As the stigma surrounding mental health continues to decrease, fitness professionals are increasingly recognized as credible advocates for mental health. Their involvement helps normalize conversations about mental health and encourages more individuals to seek help and support.

Mental Health Training

A Canadian non-for-profit organization, Fitness for Mental Health, is pushing to take this one step further: The Fitness Support Specialist virtual training program is recognized by canfitpro and most provincial certification bodies providing continuing education credits. Fitness Support Specialists work to improve the lives of people living with depression and anxiety by delivering individualized fitness recovery plans.

Fitness professionals are the warriors in the fight for better mental health. By leveraging expertise, access, and influence, they play a crucial role in promoting mental well-being and preventing mental health disorders. As society continues to grapple with the challenges of mental illness, the contributions of fitness professionals must be recognized and supported. Their work not only enhances individual well-being but also contributes to a healthier, more vibrant community.

Let us take the power of exercise as medicine and make a difference!

Erin Phelan is a health and wellness expert and the marketing and communications specialist for Matrix Fitness Canada. Erin is also the communications Director for Fitness Industry Council of Canada. With her roots in group fitness, Erin is the proud owner of the Fitfam, a virtual health and fitness community with daily morning classes.