Mental health and wellbeing are an important part of creating positive experiences in fitness and physical activity. While exercise can bring significant benefits for mental wellbeing, the environment in which people are active also matters. The way a gym looks and feels, how fitness professionals communicate with gym users, and the culture promoted within a fitness setting can all influence whether people feel comfortable, confident and included.
These considerations are at the heart of the #BEACTIVE DAY 2026 Mental Health & Wellbeing Guide, developed by Prof. Dr Richard Peter Bailey, Dr Ra’ed Ali Mohammaed Al-Khamaiseh, and Dr Nadia Samsudin from UCSI University to help fitness and physical activity professionals understand the links between physical activity and mental wellbeing and translate this knowledge into everyday practice.
As part of the Guide, Dr. Karlie Intlekofer, Global Research Scientist at Matrix Fitness, contributed a series of expert insights exploring how fitness professionals and gym owners can create environments that support mental wellbeing. Drawing on her expertise in neuroscience, behaviour and exercise science, Dr. Intlekofer provides practical recommendations on everything from gym design and communication to building confidence, fostering community and supporting children and adolescents.
How fitness environments shape mental wellbeing
Q: From your experience, how can gym owners create a more welcoming environment from the start?
A: First impressions matter a lot. The way a gym is organised, its layout, signage, and reception area, can immediately influence whether someone feels comfortable or out of place. Clear navigation, visible entry points, and a friendly first contact can make a big difference, especially for new or less confident members.
Q: What practical changes can gym owners make to improve the overall environment?
A: Small, intentional choices go a long way. For example, creating clearly defined areas for beginners, using simple and visible wayfinding, and ensuring the space feels easy to understand. It’s about reducing uncertainty and helping people feel confident in how to start.
Q: How important is the messaging within the gym space?
A: It’s essential. What you display, on walls, screens, or social media, shapes how people think about exercise. Shifting the focus from appearance to health, enjoyment, and long-term wellbeing helps create a more positive environment. It’s also important to reflect diversity in imagery so more people feel represented.
Q: Is anything often overlooked?
A: Yes: the culture you communicate visually. Highlighting member stories, recognising consistency and effort, and providing access to support resources all contribute to making the space feel inclusive and supportive.
Physical activity as a resource for mental wellbeing
Q: What role do gym owners and trainers play in supporting individual mental wellbeing?
A: They play a key role in shaping how people experience exercise. Beyond physical results, it’s about helping individuals feel supported, and comfortable in the environment. Confidence and a sense of belonging are essential for long-term engagement.
Q: What are some practical ways to build confidence in members?
A: Programmes should be structured so people can experience regular, achievable progress. Involving members in goal setting and helping them understand the purpose behind their training also increases motivation and self-efficacy.
Q: How can gyms encourage a stronger sense of community?
A: Create opportunities for positive interaction. Group activities, shared spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere where members acknowledge and support each other can make a big difference. Feeling part of a community encourages people to stay engaged.
Q: What should trainers keep in mind in their day-to-day interactions?
A: Simple actions matter: regular check-ins, asking how someone feels, and paying attention to behavioural changes. Trainers are often the first to notice when something is not right, so being aware and knowing when to guide someone towards additional support is very important.
Physical activity and mental wellbeing in children and adolescents
Q: Why is it so important to focus on mental wellbeing when working with young people in fitness settings?
A: Childhood and adolescence are key stages for developing confidence, movement skills, and attitudes towards physical activity. The experiences young people have in gyms or sport environments can shape how they see their bodies and their relationship with exercise for years to come.
Q: What should gym owners prioritise when designing activities for young people?
A: The focus should always be on enjoyment, learning, and confidence. Activities should support skill development and positive experiences, rather than emphasising appearance or performance outcomes. When young people enjoy what they do, they are much more likely to stay active.
Q: How can trainers create a positive and safe social environment?
A: By encouraging a supportive peer culture where young people feel welcomed and included. It’s also very important to avoid making comments about weight or appearance, especially in group settings. Instead, trainers should highlight attitude, effort, and personal progress.
Q: What role do adults play in supporting young people beyond the physical aspect?
A: A crucial one. Trainers and coaches should be attentive to behavioural signs such as anxiety, perfectionism, or body image concerns. Having the right training and maintaining open communication with families helps ensure that young people are supported in a safe and appropriate way.
Karlie Intlekofer, PhD, CNC, CPT
Global Research Scientist, Matrix Fitness
Dr. Karlie Intlekofer uses evidence-based practices to develop exercise programming and initiatives that support healthier daily habits. As a neuroscientist specializing in behavior and exercise science, she focuses on the benefits of exercise, nutrition and habit formation for brain health and well-being. Dr. Intlekofer earned her doctorate in Neuroscience and Behavior and her bachelor's degree in Health and Exercise Science.
Matrix Fitness is the fastest-growing commercial fitness brand in the world and the commercial brand of Johnson Health Tech. Matrix offers a complete portfolio of cardiovascular, group training and strength training equipment for health clubs and other fitness facilities.
