Evidence shows that exercise can have a hugely positive effect on mental wellbeing, from releasing stress-battling endorphins, to giving you the drive to take on new challenges and achieve exciting goals.

Steven’s Mental Health Journey

Hi, I’m Steven and I have struggled with Mental Health, reaching the lowest point in my life.

The beginning of 2020 was the beginning of reaching my lowest point, losing my job which then spiralled into depression leading to self-harming. I didn’t see a way out and it began to get worse.

7 years ago, I was in and out of the gym as I couldn’t get into a routine, I didn’t feel comfortable and felt the environment was focussed on self-image. I stopped going as it wasn’t helping with my mental health and in fact made it worse.

March 2020, I decided to try a new gym, Places Gym Preston. I started with a free trial where I could look around the gym, speak to some of the staff and familiarise myself with some of the equipment. I was a little timid based on gyms I have previously visited and didn’t want to have the same experience. I continued visiting the gym and kept myself to myself. After getting a routine after 2 weeks, the first lockdown began, and the gym was shut down.

I didn’t know where to turn as I suddenly lost my routine; my mental health began to get worse. I tried to keep active throughout the lockdown, which boosted my mood as all I wanted to do was get out of the house. Lockdown eventually came to an end and the gym reopened. I slowly started to get back into a routine as I gained more confidence, I started to enjoy going to the gym and began speaking with other members and staff.

All the staff at Places Gym are encouraging and helpful when wanting advice on which equipment to use and how to use it. They have helped me along my journey of mental health, and I would like to encourage others to take that first step.

Places Gym offer free day trials where you can have a look around the gym, use the equipment and trial out classes. You don’t have to speak to anyone, and you can stay as long as you like, no pressure.

Get in contact with your local gym today to book in your free trial. Contact us