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The definition of fitness is evolving to embrace a more holistic approach where sleep, nutrition, recovery, mindfulness and social connections are becoming more integrated into self-care routines.
Taking a holistic approach to fitness makes sense as people integrate wellness and self-care practices into their fitness routines. There’s recognition and appreciation of the connection between the body and mind — and how important it is to pay attention to both.

People are growing more interested in addressing mindset and mental wellbeing. Research shows the impact of movement and exercise on our mental health: exercise releases endorphins, boosts our mood, reduces stress, supports better sleep, and helps us feel confident and accomplished. And practices such as mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing, and relaxation are activities that complement workout activities.

Sleep, recovery, nutrition, and social connections are all elements of a holistic approach. And research by Ernst & Young found that workers’ have new and broader expectations for benefits that support their overall wellbeing. The pandemic really accelerated this — employers need to (and many are) paying attention to this shift for attracting and retaining talent.

How a holistic approach to fitness addresses the whole person
Our experiences, stage of life, family situation, values, and goals, are all part of who we are. What matters most to each one of us? When we embrace the whole person, we’re taking a holistic — and more personalized — approach.

Back in the 1980s, the “no pain, no gain” craze engrained the idea in us that in order to achieve results, everyone had to go all out and only the fittest people really benefited. “Feel the burn” and pushing to the limit defined a fitness routine for many people for decades. Now, people are looking differently at what role physical activity play in their life:

1. For some it’s a strong social component – group exercise classes, recreational activities like pickleball.
2. For others it’s a chance to have “me time.”
3. Many love a chance to be competitive and see how far they can push themselves.
4. And maintaining mobility and ease of movement can be a huge reason for exercise for many people as we think about healthy aging.

While the role exercise plays in each of our lives can shift and change over time, the holistic approach means that wellness and self-care practices are truly integrated. The term “self-care” is much more common now and encompasses the physical and mental/emotional dimensions of health and wellbeing.

How a holistic approach fitness shows up in programming and activities
HealthFitness campaigns and challenges are a great example for how HealthFitness weaves in holistic health behaviors and activities with fitness. HealthFitness weaves the holistic approach into personalized fitness experiences (like what you get with personal training or small group). While workouts/training are a core part, HealthFitness is including other aspects such as mindset, sleep, recharging, nutrition, and more!

Another example is with the HealthFitness coaching program. HealthFitness supports individuals across all dimensions of wellbeing and our coaches consider the whole person—their goals, challenges, and especially why making lifestyle changes and healthy habits matters to them.

Learn more
Taking a holistic approach to finess is a top trend for 2024! Learn about the other trends that will shape corporate fitness in 2024. 

Connect with us for a no-obligation meeting and to learn more about our holistic approach to fitness.