Four industry experts share tips for how gyms can prioritize members’ mental health and whole-person wellness.
The fitness landscape is evolving once again. Today, many gym members are no longer just looking for a good workout — they’re also seeking support for a healthy mind.
In the latest Thought Leaders roundtable, four industry experts shared their strategies on how the fitness industry can better address mental health. The panelists included Derek Gallup, the founder and president of SPARKLE – CGF; Richard Earney, the founder and wellness director of MindstrongWellbeing; Jessica Maurer, the certification manager at the Mental Wellbeing Association; and Meri McCoy-Thompson, the executive director of Dovetail Learning.
The discussion opened with a shared message: it’s time to shift the focus of fitness from physical appearances to whole-person wellness. Maurer said many consumers have already made the shift and the industry needs to catch up.
“For so long, the industry was focused on calories burned and pounds gone, but now people are craving something far more meaningful than those numbers,” said Maurer. “I don’t think this is just a trend. I think this is a wakeup call.”
Earney agreed, emphasizing club’s marketing messages should prioritize how people feel over how they look. He stressed the need to destigmatize mental health and create safe, supportive environments starting with internal staff.
If employees and leadership model healthy mental wellness, Earney said it sets the tone for members. A simple check-in with your team can open the door to meaningful conversations. “You have to lead with vulnerability,” he said. “It’s not just about words. There has to be action behind it.”
Helping members feel a sense of belonging was another key theme of the discussion. McCoy-Thompson encouraged clubs to make this a priority, noting inclusive programming is a great place to start. Maurer suggested collaborating with members to discover what brings them joy — whether it’s a dance class, boxing or even goat yoga.
“How can we bring joy back to the clubs so people aren’t thinking they’re there to be punished?” said McCoy-Thompson. “We have to meet people where they are.”
The onboarding process offers a valuable opportunity to create connection from day one. Gallup recommended giving new members access to a variety of experiences so they can explore what resonates with them.
Earney described a program used at Midtown Athletic Clubs called Launch, which introduces new members to lifestyle-based goals — such as “Everyday Fitness” or “Zero Stress” — instead of appearance-focused ones.
Onboarding is also a chance to foster community. Maurer proposed pairing new members with current ones to prevent feelings of isolation. Gallup noted the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and connection, observing that many people are now seeking out group classes for social engagement.
Another simple but powerful tool? Slowing down to genuinely connect. Instead of rushing through daily tasks, Maurer advised making time for real conversations that show members they matter.
Each panelist underscored the same core message: connection matters. Helping members feel joy, find belonging and experience authentic support is essential. The mental health conversation will continue to grow — and the industry must evolve with it. Gyms can support the whole person, not just the body they walk in with.
