The UK has dubbed today “Blue Monday,” or the most depressing day of the calendar year.
UK psychologist Cliff Arnall created a formula in 2005 that calculated the most miserable day of the year, and found that, “Lack of sunshine, holiday debt, failed New Year’s resolutions and minimal motivational levels result in being depressed and less active.”
According to a survey commissioned by UK fitness chain Fitness First: “41 percent of UK adults agreed that January is the most depressing month of the year … In addition to this, other recent studies have shown that the last full week of January is most depressing, with particular emphasis on the Monday, resulting in the term ‘Blue Monday.’”
To counteract the “blues” of today’s namesake, Fitness First has launched a marketing campaign called “Red Monday.” It has opened its door to the UK public for free 20-minute “Freestyle Team Workouts” that cover a variety of workout styles, such as HIIT, core and total body.
Fitness First chose the color red due to the “motivation, passion and energy” the color exudes. The “Red Monday” campaign is tied to the company’s recent brand re-launch, which revealed a new logo with a red and white color scheme. Previously, the brand had utilized a blue and white color scheme.
As a part of “Red Monday,” UK Olympian Victoria Pendelton is scheduled to visit Fitness First’s Tottenham Court Road location in London, England. The Olympian will provide participants with fitness advice on diet, well-being and more.
Fitness First boasts 337 clubs worldwide, 82 of which reside in the UK.
Photos courtesy of Fitness First
By Rachel Zabonick
