"Lack of activity destroys the good condition of every human being, while movement and methodical physical exercise save it and preserve it."
Who once said this prophetic quote? Was it Dr. Ken Cooper, the father of aerobics? Was it Billy Blanks, Denise Austin, or a Spartan/Tough Mudder competitor? Not even close — it was Plato.
It was an ancient B.C. philosopher who spearheaded the thought of exercise's importance in our lives. Such importance has been advanced by others mentioned above, and yet still other fitness industry, governmental and academician leaders over the decades contributed to the importance of exercise.
Even the Surgeon General proclaimed physical activity's relevance in our daily lexicon of health. In fact, the Surgeon General's Report on Physical Activity and Health released in 1996, commissioned in 1994 by Donna Shalala, was to lead our industry to the promised land by catalyzing a new physical activity and fitness movement.
Then in October of 2014, Harvard Health Publishing proclaimed: "Exercise is still the best medicine."
Exercise is Medicine
So, since EIM is very much alive and well, then how is it that EIM went from No. 6 on the ACSM's top ten list in 2020 and now to No. 7 in 2021? Can one say Peloton, who is now the proud owner of long-time exercise equipment manufacturer Precor? Yes, we can. Virtual training's twin, online training is now ranked No. 1.
There are many arguments about the long-term staying power of both the No. 1 and the No. 6 trends after the pandemic. People want and need socialization. However, club operators who embrace both online and virtual offerings and monetize those will shine through this dark period in our history.
So, between Peloton and prescriptions, let's give a prescription for the medicine we call exercise — both in the club and at home, or even while on vacation. And to members and non-members alike, in our markets, and even those out of our market, virtually. I am sure Plato would agree.