AUSactive welcomes end of mask wearing in Victorian gyms 

AUSactive Chief Executive Barrie Elvish has welcomed the Victorian Government's move to remove the requirement for mask wearing in gyms from midnight this Friday, noting that it was among obstacles preventing Victorians from being able to return to gyms.

Recent research by Deakin University commissioned by AUSactive identified prior to COVID-19 lockdowns, 51% of exercise-based energy expenditure by Australians over the age of 15 came from physical activity in fitness centres and via personal trainers, 29% came via sporting activities, and 20% via other types of exercise.

Writing on the AUSActive, Elvish noted “after recreational walking, fitness centre-based exercise - including yoga, Pilates and strength and conditioning - was the second most popular choice for over half of all adult Australians.  More than cycling, surfing, swimming to name but a few.

“The Research showed the arrival of COVID-19 in 2020 resulted in a 60% decline in national exercise levels due to lockdowns and the consequent lack of access to fitness centres and studios.

“As is now well recognised by experts in the field, a lack of exercise is not only detrimental to our physical health but also our mental wellbeing; again a situation exacerbated by COVID and the associated lockdowns.

“AUSactive also gives ‘two cheers’ for the (Victorian) Government’s Get Active Kids Voucher program (as) we believe any incentive that encourages exercise and physical activity participation by the younger generation is not only worthwhile but vital for their long-term health.

“However, to be worthy of three cheers the program should not be limited to organised sport but (should) rather empower the target group to self-select what their preferred physical activity is.

“Finally, if the Victorian Government wants to achieve a standing ovation on top of three cheers, it should widen the exercise and physical activity program to all Victorians so families can exercise together, socialise with friends, their neighbours and generally reconnect with their community.”

Referring to the Deakin University research, Elvish stated “AUSactive also looked at the economic modelling of getting people active and it found 44% of Australians would consider beginning an exercise program if an incentive voucher was available.

“Such an extension of the Get Active Kids for all Victorians would have a return on investment to the Victorian Government of more than $3 for every dollar spent through savings to the Health Budget and the hip pocket of Victorian taxpayers.”

ISEAL Fitness Industry Research
AUSactive and the Institute of Sport, Exercise and Active Living (ISEAL) at Victoria University have also announced a renewal of their collaboration to provide evidence and promote best practice for the Health and Fitness Industry in Australia.

This work will build upon research initiatives being conducted in the United Kingdom, delivering regular industry-related research reviews and events, as well as building the evidence base for the effectiveness of structured exercise programs delivered by the fitness industry.

The FIT & WELL Study (FITness industry, public health and WELLbeing study) aims to help quantify the impact and effectiveness of fitness industry services in Australia.

Elvish added "it is only with evidence such as this that AUSactive can pave the way for the fitness industry to be a recognised and integrated partner in public health and wellbeing strategies."