California Launches New Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being

Governor Gavin Newsom’s office has announced the Governor’s Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being, a new advisory council tasked with exploring healthy strategies to ensure Californians can thrive.

The announcement took place yesterday at an In-Shape Health Clubs location in Bakersfield, California. The advisory council came about in collaboration with the California Fitness Alliance.

“On behalf of the California Fitness Alliance, we are thrilled to collaborate with Governor Newsom and the new fitness council to make California the healthiest state in the nation,” said Francesca Schuler, the co-founder of the California Fitness Alliance and CEO of In-Shape Health Clubs. “Together, we will continue our mission to provide equitable access to fitness for all Californians while educating them on the mental and physical benefits of exercise and motivating them to get moving.”

“As fitness professionals, we thank the Governor and First Partner for their foresight to create the Governor’s Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being and for their investment in looking ahead to create a culture where fitness is essential and accessible,” echoed Angel Banos, the CEO and president of Gold’s Gym SoCal Group.

The advisory council with place a special emphasis on child physical and mental health, and will be led and convened by First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom and Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Ronnie Lott.

The Advisory Council will include representatives from health and wellness organizations, youth sports programs, education, the entertainment and fitness industry, and others from around the state.

Its activities will range from advising on the development of physical activity and wellness goals for Californians of all ages; to facilitating collaboration among federal, state and local agencies, education, business and industry, the private sector, and others in the promotion of physical activity and mental wellness.

“As California reopens, we must address the impacts this pandemic has had on physical fitness and mental health,” said Governor Newsom. “Today, with California’s First Partner and football legend Ronnie Lott, we are launching an Advisory Council that will focus on fitness and well-being, two issues that need a long-term commitment and strategy to ensure our residents, especially our youth, get the physical exercise and self-care they need to thrive.”

The Governor’s Advisory Council will be comprised of up to 15 members, who will be named at a later date.