Australia is a movement fuelled country, with Saturday sport and beach cricket a regular occurrence. Yet despite our love of exercise and physical activity filled social calendars, one in ten Australians rate their quality of life as poor with mental health and developing chronic illnesses key concerns1.New research reveals two in five (40%) Australians say cost is the main barrier to maintaining their health and wellbeing – with younger Australians and those on lower incomes more likely to suffer from poor mental health1.A new study also found physical activity to be just as effective as counselling or leading medications in reducing mild to moderate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress as conventional treatment2 and yet, one in four adults don’t meet the global recommended levels of physical activity3.With the increasing cost of living and additional pressure on people to keep on top of their bills while managing their daily stress levels, increased mental health issues are likely to be amplified.
CEO of Jetts Fitness Australia, Elaine Jobson says that in times of uncertainty, it’s important for Aussies to keep moving their bodies.“For the first time ever, we are seeing more people joining gyms to manage their mental wellness than their physical wellness. When people are exercising regularly, it no longer becomes a discretionary spend – it’s a fundamental need for their mental health. Particularly in times of stress and pressure or when the financial economy is getting difficult you need to keep your mental wellness going and prioritize your health.”In Australia, one in five people have experienced a mental disorder in the past 12 months. But despite the evidence that physical activity is known to improve mental health, it not been widely adopted as first-choice treatment and is often the first to be axed when Aussies are under financial pressure. “We realize Australians are tightening their belts and we’re starting to see the effects of interest rates going up and CPI increasing.
The best thing Australian’s can do for their health is to find a gym that understands and supports them in times of financial crisis.”“Jetts has always championed affordable membership and our no lock in contract policy helps give Australian’s peace of mind. As fast as you can cancel a bank transfer – you can cancel your gym membership.” Ms. Jobson says.With their community centric culture, Jetts is providing ways for Australians to keep up their love of exercise without the need to choose between moving for their mental health or putting dinner on the table. With free fitness resources available to all members of the community,
Jetts is aiming to bridge the gap between younger and low income Australians and affordable access to physical activity.“We understand that times are tough and we have free on demand workouts as well as training programs which are available to the general public. A lot of our clubs also offer free group training at the park for community members. Ms. Jobson says.To learn more about how Jetts is helping everyday Australians to keep moving for their mental health, visit https://www.jetts.com.au/
Jetts currently have 30 gyms across Brisbane.