Is Exercise an Essential Service?

“Movement for Life” by Lauren Walker All Fit/All Ages Gym

What do we classify as an essential service? I get into these conversations at the gym quite frequently. As a small business, we have been greatly affected by the lockdowns. Why are Fast Food franchises classified as an essential service? From my point of view, it seems odd that we classify this service as essential. Fast food is detrimental to people’s health. Grocery stores are essential because people need to eat. My purpose is to propose that exercise is an essential service because it nurtures and supports physical and mental health.

I’ve learned over the years that a gym is like a sanctuary for people. It’s a place you can come to and forget about your stress. It’s a place you can focus on yourself without interruption. People come here to manage their lives in a positive way. It’s a safe place to be. I’ve had so many members tell me that this is the one place they can find peace and quiet. Not only that, they feel so energized by being with other people. We can all share a laugh and encourage-ment. Social interaction boosts people’s moods.

Exercise helps alleviate feelings of depression, anxiety and stress. I think a lot of people out there could benefit from a daily exercise routine. Being in this profession my whole life, I find routine is part of long-term success. When you have a place to go and a time to be there, odds are you will show up. You also have friends waiting for you to show up. Those people support and encourage you. People need structure, consistency and social connection. If this helps to keep people moving, then I believe it is essential.

The more movement we can incorporate into our lives, the better.

#columnist #laurenwalker #movementforlife