Fitness
The Best Gym Trainers to Supercharge Your Workouts in 2024
<blockquote class=”body-blockquote”>Read more <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/gym-wear/” target=”_blank” data-vars-ga-ux-element=”Hyperlink”>gym wear and wearable tech reviews</a> from <em>Men’s Health</em></blockquote><p>Not only will it help you lift more efficiently, but investing in the right shoes for the exercises you do will ensure that you’re moving correctly and more safely, too. For example, if you’re into <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/fitness/a26387550/crossfit-complete-guide/” target=”_blank”>CrossFit</a>, you’ll need something versatile to handle the variation of exercises you’ll do – from deadlifts to rope climbs. If you’re more of a <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/gym-wear/a30689373/best-weightlifting-shoes/” target=”_blank”>weightlifter</a>, consider a shoe that will keep your form strong and secure – think fastening straps instead of laces, raised heels and grippy soles.</p><p>That said, we recognise that not everyone has the same spending power. With that in mind, we’ve assembled a range of gym trainers — for sprinting, <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/workouts/a41051818/best-squat-exercises/” target=”_blank”>squatting</a> and everything in-between — at a range of price points, to ensure that you’re working at your best capacity. Stick around for our edit of the best gym shoes for working out in 2024.</p><p class=”body-tip”>More shoe reviews:<strong> </strong><a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/gym-wear/a30689373/best-weightlifting-shoes/” target=”_blank”>Best weightlifting shoes</a> | <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/gym-wear/g46295797/best-running-shoes-for-men/” target=”_blank”>Best running shoes for men</a> | <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/gym-wear/a45354168/best-barefoot-shoes/” target=”_blank”>Best barefoot training shoes</a> | <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/gym-wear/a27267273/best-crossfit-shoes/” target=”_blank”>Best CrossFit shoes</a> | <a href=”https://www.menshealth.com/uk/gym-wear/g60844183/best-walking-shoes-for-men/” target=”_blank”>Best walking shoes</a></p>”/>
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1
Best overall
Nike Metcon 9
Pros
- All-in-one shoe for a variety of training types
- Durable against abrasive exercises
- Stable for lifting
Cons
- Too stiff for running in
Now synonymous with CrossFit’s global popularity, there’s a reason five-time CrossFit games champion Mat Fraser swears by the Metcon. This versatile shoe provides a strong, stable base and is just as durable when it comes to functional training — think sled pushes, rope climbs and battle ropes — as they are with traditional training and Olympic lifts.
For lifting, the heel is stable and rigid, and it’s fitted with a plate that allows you to achieve the correct positioning when performing barbell exercises like squats and dead lifts.
For more dynamic movements, the wide toe box allows your feet to spread, while the rubber wrap-around at the centre of the shoe provides additional grip.
It’s not the most flexible, so if you’re a CrossFitter who prefers a more pliable shoe, or you’re someone who incorporates a lot of running into their gym sessions, the Metcon 9 may not be a good fit. Otherwise, it can handle pretty much anything you through its way.
Similar shoes: Reebok Nano X2, Under Armour TriBase Reign 6
| Best for: | General gym training, CrossFit, Functional workouts |
|---|
2
Best for Hyrox
Puma Deviate Nitro 2
If you’re on a hybrid run and gym plan in search of an out-and-out running shoe that you can wear for intervals and basic strength training, the Puma Deviate Nitro 2 can seamlessly transition between the road and the weights section.
It’s one of the most popular shoes for Hyrox (and is worn by 3 x Hyrox world champion Hunter McIntyre) thanks to its grippy sole, heel counter (for a secure fit), and lightweight feel.
As you’d expect from a carbon plated running shoe, it’s not the most stable shoe for the gym, not least because of its lofty 36mm stack height (or cushioning). So while it’s fine for run-heavy workouts and something like a Hyrox race where speed is important, it’s not the best by any means if what you’re mostly doing is lifting or functional training.
Similar shoes: Hoka Rocket X 2, Saucony Endorphin Pro 3, Brooks Hyperion Tempo
3
For HIIT-style workouts
Nike Free Metcon 5
Pros
- Flexible and lightweight for cardio and HIIT-style workouts
- Stretch around the collar helps feet to move naturally
- Wide heel good for light lifting
Cons
- Not the best shape for heavy weightlifting
For something with a little more cushioning and greater flexibility than the Metcon 9, while still retaining some stability at the heel, consider the Nike Free Metcon 5.
Better suited for HIIT-style training, it’s a more versatile shoe than the Metcon 9 for anyone whose workouts combine strength exercises with short bursts of cardio and when your workouts entail quick changes in direction.
The Free Metcon 5 has traction and grip in abundance, offering great stability on different surfaces, and ensures you have both a stable base for weightlifting and confidence during multidirectional movements.
As Nike puts it, the Free Metcon 5 is ‘perfect for flying through a cardio day or enhancing your agility’.
Similar shoes: Inov8 F-LITE G 300
| Best for: | Cardio, HIIT, Functional training |
|---|
4
Well-rounded
Reebok Nano X4
Pros
- Heel plate for support when weightlifting
- Flexible upper for dynamic movements
- Rubber tread for grip
Cons
- A tad bulky
For well over a decade, Reebok’s Nano range has a been a go-to for fitness types in search of a well-rounded gym shoe, and the newest iteration, the Nano X4, is no exception.
A true cross training shoe, it’s capable for tackling heaps of workout scenarios, from weightlifting to CrossFit-style training, and even some short cardio efforts, thanks to its responsive midsole, heel plate, grippy rubber tread on the outsole, and flexible upper.
Similar shoes: Reebok Nanoflex TR 2, Nike Metcon 9
| Best for: | CrossFit-style training, Weightlifting, Short cardio efforts |
|---|
5
Good for weightlifting
Under Armour Reign 6
The Under Armour Reign 6 is another gym shoe that positions itself more towards weightlifting and CrossFit-style training than cardio-heavy workouts.
The Reign 6 has three points of ground contact and a 2mm offset at the toe (positioning the shoe as one of the more flat options) for a stable base when weightlifting.
The Reign 6 also features a removable, drop-in midsole, which is softer in the forefoot and firmer in the heel. This gives the shoe great flexibility for lower body exercises and multi-directional movements, while maintaining stability in the heel for weightlifting.
Similar shoes: Nobull Gum Trainer, Reebok Nano X4
| Best for: | Crossfit-style workouts, Weightlifting |
|---|
7
Popular for Cross-Fit
TYR CXT-1 Trainer Tan / Grey
Pros
- Flexible forefoot for explosive movements
- Responsive midsole for plyometrics
Cons
- Stock not always available
- High heel-to-toe drop
Another versatile cross training shoe, the TYR CXT-1 is one of the most popular footwear choices among CrossFit athletes and the preferred shoe of 2023 CrossFit Games winner Jeffrey Adler.
The CXT-1 has a responsive foam midsole for things like box jumps and other plyometric exercises. It also has flexibility in the forefoot for explosive movements and agility training.
In terms of stability, the CXT-1 has a wrap-around side gripper around the heel for recreational lifting. However, it also has one of the highest heel drops compared to similar CrossFit shoes, at 9mm. This won’t be to everyone’s liking, but if you’re tall you may benefit from the extra ankle mobility.
Similar shoes: Nike Metcon 9, Reebok Nano X4, NOBULL Trainers
| Best for: | CrossFit-style training |
|---|
It may well be one of the newest footwear brand to arrive on the fitness scene, but the R.A.D One is already receiving a lot of praise for being a dependable all-rounder training shoe for pretty much any kind of strength training.
With a cushioned foam midsole for plyometrics, a rubber sole with plenty of traction, a spacious toe box and secure heel lock for lifting, it not only looks the part, but will perform just as well, too.
Similar shoes: Nike Metcon 9, Reebok Nano X4
| Best for: | CrossFit-style workouts |
|---|
A brand that’s closely associated with CrossFit, the Nobull Gum Trainer is a popular choice among CrossFit athletes thanks to its versatility and durability.
The Gym Trainer+ is similar to the standard Gym Trainer, featuring the same general shape and breathable upper, but instead of a circular tread, the Trainer+ has a herringbone outsole pattern which provides more traction for multi-directional movements.
The stack height and cushioning on the Trainer+ is also noticeable bigger than the Gym Trainer’s, making it a better (albeit more chunky) option for high impact exercises.
10
Vivobarefoot Motus Strength Mens
Barefoot shoes have become popular for working out in thanks to their zero heel-to-toe drop for stability, a wide toe box for balance, and thin soles that bring you closer to the ground. The Vivobarefoot Motus Strength has all these qualities as well as extra support on the sole for added protection during strength training.
If the squat rack is your second home, this is the shoe for you. The Romaleos is Nike’s out and out weightlifting shoe, designed specifically to support the demands of lifting heavy weights. The Romaleos 4 draws upon the popular Romaleos 2, featuring two adjustable straps for support, a TPU rubber sole for stability and spacious front section to allow you to spread your toes.
Named the ‘best overall weightlifting shoe’ in our guide to the Best Weightlifting Shoes, we found the shoe’s rigid midsole and rubber tread provided great traction when performing heavy barbell lifts such as squats and deadlifts.
In an ideal world, you’ll only use your gym shoes when you’re actually at the gym. For a lot of people, that just isn’t practical. In the Nike Pegasus Trail 4 you get an outdoor running shoe that will also do a job in the weight room.
Designed with winter workouts in mind, think of this as a transitional gym shoe. It has a sturdy mesh upper, an abrasion resistant outsole for regular cardio commutes and a grippy bottom for a confident HIIT workout.
13
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Classic
Let’s change things up here. Powerlifters love Converse. It’s not uncommon to see experienced weightlifters rocking a pair of Chuck Taylors, and there’s a simple reason why. The next best thing to lifting barefoot, the flat sole of Converse Chuck Ts mean that you can keep your foot extremely close to the ground, helping you drive the weight more efficiently and remain planted more effectively. Similarly, there’s no heel cup in Converse, meaning that you can drive your energy straight into the ground.
What to Look for When Shopping for Gym Trainers
The best gym trainers are versatile, allowing you to alternate between HIIT, CrossFIT, plyometrics, spin and basically anything else you throw at them. Serious weightlifting requires a more purpose-built shoe, but for the majority of workouts, a cross training gym shoe will put you in good stead. Here’s some things to look for when shopping for a pair.
Grip
Grip is key. The same as you wouldn’t want to slip around on wet tarmac when running, you also don’t want your feet to slide around the gym floor when squatting or pushing sleds. Rubber soles generally offer the best traction, as do shoes that are specifically designed for things like rope climbs.
Stability
Stability is more of a concern for weightlifting than it is for running – although if you over pronate when you run then you may want to look for a runner with extra stability.
For lifting, look for shoes with plenty of heel support and a secure fit so your feet don’t move. A flat sole and wide toe box will give you greater ground feel.
Durability
Dynamic movement like rope climbs, cleans, sled pushes and box jumps will inevitably take their toll on your cross training shoes. The best are built with this in mind with toe caps and wraps on the outsole and midsole to ensure they last.
Ed Cooper is the former Deputy Digital Editor at Men’s Health UK, writing and editing about anything you want to know about — from tech to fitness, mental health to style, food and so much more. Ed has run the MH gauntlet, including transformations, marathons and er website re-designs. He’s awful at pub sports, though. Follow him: @EA_Cooper
Luke Chamberlain is a senior ecommerce writer for Men’s Health UK where he compiles expert-led buying guides and in-depth product reviews across gym wear, fitness tech, supplements, and grooming. Responsible for testing everything from the latest gym headphones to the best manscaping tools, Luke also enlists the help of leading health and wellness experts to help readers make informed choices when shopping online – whether it’s to debunk the latest viral hair growth trend or to get the lowdown on a new type of recovery tech. He also covers major sales events for Men’s Health, such as Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day, scouting and verifying hundreds of discounts in order to recommend only the most genuine deals on offer. A magazine journalism graduate from the University of Sheffield in 2018, Luke has also worked as assistant editor for Outdoor Swimmer magazine and as an ecommerce writer for The Recommended. When he’s not testing the latest health and fitness products, he’s busy plotting routes for his next trail run or gravel ride out of London. Follow Luke on Instagram at @lukeochamb
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Versatile and effective, stationary exercise bikes make a fantastic addition to any home gym. That’s because they provide a solid low-impact workout while boosting cardiovascular fitness. Recumbent bikes are a type of stationary bike that puts you in a more comfortable reclined position to support your back as you exercise. This position distributes the rider’s weight more evenly, in turn providing better support for your back and reducing strain on your neck and wrists.
Seniors, those just getting started on their fitness journey and individuals who have knee and joint pain may especially appreciate recumbent bikes as a way to stay active. Our fitness and engineering experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute have evaluated exercise bikes for over a decade, looking at all different options at a variety of price points to help you find the best solution for your fitness needs. When researching recumbent exercise bikes, we looked for highly rated options with adjustable features, a wide range of resistance, a clear display and durable materials. Our top picks offer something for every rider, whether you’re new to fitness or a seasoned pro.
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1
Best Overall
Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike
Pros
- Moderate price point
- Tracks a variety of metrics
- Vented seat and backrest
Cons
- Small screen compared to other models
Schwinn is a leader in stationary exercise bikes and has previously performed well in our tests. This recumbent bike model comes in at a moderate price point but doesn’t skimp on special features. With 16 magnetic resistance levels and 13 built-in workout programs, this machine is great for a variety of workout levels and intensities.
Our experts like that the LCD screen tracks metrics like speed, RPM, heart rate, distance and time, but note that it is on the smaller side at only 5.5 inches. The good news is that the bike syncs with popular cycling apps like Zwift, and is Bluetooth heart rate-enabled if you have the accompanying strap. You’ll notice that this recumbent bike has a vented seat and back to keep you cool during your workout.
Reviewers liked that the seat is highly adjustable and find the flywheel smooth and fairly quiet. Many noted that the machine is sturdy as well. But if you’re looking for a slightly larger screen and a padded seat, Schwinn also makes a 290 model with a few additional special features at a slightly higher price.
RELATED: 6 Low-Impact Cardio Exercises That Won’t Hurt Your Joints
| Dimensions | 64″ L x 27.7″ W x 44″ H |
|---|---|
| Resistance | 16 magnetic resistance levels |
| Display | 5.5-in. segmented LCD |
| Product weight | 81.6 lbs |
| Maximum user weight | 300 lbs |
2
Best Value
Merach S08 Recumbent Exercise Bike
Now 45% Off
Pros
- Budget-friendly choice
- Best for seniors
- Padded seat and backrest
Cons
- Only eight resistance levels
We’re fans of many Merach products, including their rower that performed well in our tests. Their S08 bike has an overall 4.5 out of 5 star rating on Amazon and has all the essentials you would expect in a good quality stationary bike for a very low price. The LCD monitor is on the smaller side but shows metrics like distance, time, heart rate and more.
The seat and backrest are both padded, and reviewers noted how comfortable and quiet the bike is during their workouts. Many reviewers also said that the bike is very straightforward regarding assembly and is partially pre-assembled. With the easier assembly and cushioned seat, we feel that this pick is also a great option for seniors.
Keep in mind that you will only find eight resistance levels on this bike, which is less than others on this list but still provides for enough variance in your workout. If you’re looking to get a good quality recumbent bike at a low price point, the S08 fits the bill.
RELATED: Best Women’s Workout Shoes for All Types of Exercise
| Dimensions | 51.96″D x 25″W x 38.38″H |
|---|---|
| Resistance | 8 levels of magnetic resistance |
| Display | LCD monitor |
| Product weight | 57 lbs |
| Maximum user weight | 300 lbs |
3
Best for Beginners
Sunny Health & Fitness Programmable Recumbent Bike
Pros
- Affordable piece of equipment
- 24 built-in workouts
- Device holder
Cons
- Very basic display
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly recumbent bike, look no further than Sunny Health & Fitness. The brand makes a variety of affordable workout equipment offerings that have historically shown great value in our evaluations. The SF-RB4850 recumbent bike is one of the more affordable options that we have seen, but still includes special features we look for like 24 built-in workouts, a performance monitor that tracks basic metrics and a device holder for your phone or tablet.
This model has 16 levels of automatic magnetic tension, and most importantly has a padded seat for comfort during your exercise session and a mesh back to keep you cool and ventilated. The bike accommodates those with a leg inseam of 29.9 inches to 39.4 inches. Reviewers loved the value of this machine, with many reporting that it provides a smooth ride and comfortable seating, but noted that the display could be a bit more sophisticated.
RELATED: 10 Best Cardio Workouts to Try at Home or in the Gym, According to Exercise Pros
| Dimensions | 59″ L x 26″ W x 47.5″ H |
|---|---|
| Resistance | 16 levels of automatic magnetic tension |
| Display | Color meter display |
| Product weight | 86.4 lbs |
| Maximum user weight | 300 lbs |
4
Best Weight Inclusive
Niceday Indoor Recumbent Exercise Bike
Pros
- Higher maximum user weight than other models
- 16 levels of resistance
- 8 seat positions
Cons
- Smaller display
Most recumbent exercise bikes on the market have a maximum user weight capacity of around 300 pounds, but this option from Niceday can support riders up to 400 pounds. Reviewers also like that the bike comes largely pre-assembled and at a moderate price.
Our fitness experts appreciate that the bike offers 16 levels of progressive resistance, as well as a cushioned seat for comfort and a breathable mesh backrest to keep you cool during those longer sweat sessions. Plus, the seat position adjusts up to eight different ways, which is particularly good for accommodating a short or tall person.
The LED monitor tracks basic metrics, and there is a tablet holder to keep you entertained during your ride. The bike even has Bluetooth capabilities if you want to connect to cycling apps.
| Dimensions | 50″D x 23″W x 45″H |
|---|---|
| Resistance | 16 levels of magnetic resistance |
| Display | LED digital monitor |
| Product weight | 89 lbs |
| Maximum user weight | 400 lbs |
5
Best Smart
NordicTrack Commercial R35 Recumbent Bike
Pros
- 14-in HD smart touchscreen
- 26 levels of digital resistance
- iFIT provides access to 16,000 interactive workouts
Cons
- Expensive
NordicTrack makes some of our favorite top-tested treadmills, and our personal trainers love the offerings and seasoned fitness instructors on iFIT, the interactive training platform on NordicTrack equipment. One of the few smart recumbent exercise bikes on the market, this model is pricey but offers a ton of special features that you won’t find on a generic exercise bike.
We like that this model has a substantial 14-inch HD smart touchscreen (one of the largest that we have seen on recumbent bike models) where you can access over 16,000 interactive iFIT workouts including bike sessions led by top trainers. Some reviewers voiced frustration over the bike not having much to offer in terms of pre-programmed content if you don’t subscribe to iFIT, but a 30-day free iFIT trial is included with purchase so you can see if the subscription is worth it for you.
The bike boasts 26 levels of digital resistance and hands-free automatic adjustments, plus a fan to keep you cool during those longer rides. It’s a splurge purchase but it’s from a reputable brand in the fitness space.
RELATED: The Best Treadmills for Your Home Gym, According to Fitness Pros
| Dimensions | 68.22” L x 23.69” W x 53.42” H |
|---|---|
| Resistance | 26 digital levels |
| Display | 14-in. smart HD touchscreen |
| Product weight | 192 lbs |
| Maximum user weight | 350 lbs |
How we choose the best recumbent exercise bikes
When researching recumbent exercise bikes, we look for highly rated options from reputable brands in the industry that have a track record of performing well in our tests in other fitness equipment categories. Our fitness experts prioritize options with adjustable features, smooth resistance systems, built-in workout programs and comfortable seating.
We keep in mind options that we feel are best for seniors, those with joint pain as well as weight-inclusive choices. Additionally, we look for smart models that offer a more interactive experience for high-tech users.
What to look for when shopping for the best recumbent exercise bike
Finding a high-quality exercise bike requires taking a close look at everything from assembly to resistance levels. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting the best option for your needs:
✔️ Comfortable seating: Whether you prefer a padded seat or a seat with ventilation is personal preference, but a comfortable seat is important so you can ride for a significant amount of time without discomfort.
✔️ Display: A display that tracks metrics, even basic ones such as speed and distance, is useful on a recumbent bike. Some bikes offer more metrics and larger backlit screens than others. Certain units even have smart touchscreens for a more interactive experience.
✔️ Resistance: Looking for a recumbent exercise bike that offers a range of levels and a smooth resistance system such as a magnetic one are key for an efficient and effective ride.
✔️ Adjustable settings: Ensuring that the seat positions and handlebars are highly adjustable can help accommodate a variety of different body types and heights. We also included information on maximum user weight for each bike on our list.
✔️ Special features: Some bikes have heart-rate monitors on the handlebars that sync up to the screen, built-in workout programs and options for connecting apps or music.
✔️ Dimensions: The most important thing to consider is dimensions of the bike and whether or not it will fit into your home gym space, whether that’s a spacious basement or a small bedroom corner.
Who is a recumbent bike good for?
Recumbent exercise bikes are designed for low-impact workouts, making them an ideal choice for the following individuals:
✔️ Seniors: With the seat lower to the ground, the design of most recumbent bikes makes them easier to balance on as well as get on and off of compared to traditional upright ones.
✔️ People with joint pain: The positioning of a rider when they exercise on a recumbent bike allows for reduced strain on joints including the knees and hips. Stationary bikes in general are great for low-impact activity, but the setup of a recumbent bike is even lower-impact than an upright one.
✔️ People with back issues: A supportive backrest and the reclining position of a recumbent bike provides back support, unlike other traditional stationary bikes.
✔️ Overweight riders: Most recumbent exercise bikes have a more substantial seat than other bikes, making them a more comfortable choice for a heavy person.
✔️ Beginners: Recumbent exercise bikes allow you to go at your own pace, so if you’re looking for a more leisurely workout to get yourself into an exercise routine, then they can be an excellent place to start. Since they have variable resistance, you can amp up the intensity as you become fitter.
What are some of the benefits of using a recumbent exercise bike?
Aside from offering an effective cardio workout, a recumbent exercise bike provides a variety of benefits:
✔️ Low impact: The reclining position and substantial seat size compared to other stationary bikes works to distribute weight more evenly and reduce impact on joints.
✔️ Comfort: Back support on a recumbent bike can reduce strain on your back, neck and even your wrists, so you can ride more comfortably and for longer periods of time. It also gives you the option to ride the bike hands-free, so you can stay busy by reading a book or catching up on text messages during your workout session.
✔️ Safety: Since recumbent bikes are lower to the ground than upright ones, they can be easier to get on and off of, especially for senior riders.
Is a recumbent bike good for exercise?
Absolutely. A recumbent bike can be an effective and safe option for regular exercise. The low-impact workout is easier on the joints than other cardio equipment like treadmills. Not only can recumbent exercise bikes help improve heart health and endurance since they provide a solid cardio workout, but they also can help strengthen leg muscles.
As with any piece of exercise equipment, what you put in to the workout is what you’ll get out of it. You can go more leisurely on a recumbent exercise bike than an upright bike or stationary bike, but you can also push quite hard for an intense workout too.
Which is better: a treadmill or a recumbent exercise bike?
Both are excellent pieces of exercise equipment. The choice ultimately depends on your fitness goals and whether or not you are dealing with any injuries or limitations around your activity.
A treadmill can typically provide a higher intensity workout and may burn slightly more calories per minute if you are running. But a recumbent exercise bike is easier on the joints, making them suitable for a variety of riders, and the reclined position provides support which may allow you to workout for a longer period of time.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Stefani Sassos has been working in the fitness industry for over a decade, specializing in indoor cycling and strength training. As a NASM-certified personal trainer and women’s fitness specialist, Sassos uses her exercise science knowledge and expertise to create informed fitness content for the Good Housekeeping Institute. She began her indoor cycling career in college, where she was a Penn State fitness instructor, and she went on to teach indoor cycling at major gyms and studios including Equinox Fitness Clubs. She has taught and trained on a variety of different exercise bikes and is well-versed in the current offerings.
Stefani (she/her) is a registered dietitian, a NASM-certified personal trainer and the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab, where she handles all nutrition-related content, testing and evaluation. She holds a bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences from Pennsylvania State University and a master’s degree in clinical nutrition from NYU. She is also Good Housekeeping’s on-staff fitness and exercise expert. Stefani is dedicated to providing readers with evidence-based content to encourage informed food choices and healthy living. She is an avid CrossFitter and a passionate home cook who loves spending time with her big fit Greek family.
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It is officially autumn! Our schedules are jam-packed, the holiday season is fast approaching and fall foliage makes outdoor walks even more appealing. So, what better time to commit to a walking plan that will allow you to get those steps in while also cutting your workout time in half? Enter our HIIT walking challenge!This month we’re turning our daily walks into high-intensity interval training — or HIIT — walks. HIIT workouts alternate between short, but intense, bursts of exercise (where you go all out for a period of time) and less intense active recovery. This style of training speeds up the metabolism, builds muscle, improves heart health, burns fat and increases endurance. Plus, you not only burn more calories while you’re exercising, but after the workout as well, since HIIT creates an “after-burn effect” allowing you to burn more calories at rest.
EoS Fitness Study Shows 83% of Americans Are Feeling Election-Related Stress, While 95% Recognize Importance of Physical Activity for Stress Relief
DALLAS, September 27, 2024–(BUSINESS WIRE)–As the November presidential election approaches, 83% of American adults are experiencing some form of stress, and three out of five are reporting moderate to extreme anxiety about it, according to a new survey conducted by EoS Fitness. The study also highlighted that 45% of respondents have seen their anxiety levels increase over the past 60 days, with 53% expecting their stress to escalate as Election Day gets closer.
In the face of rising election stress, the majority of respondents—95%—agree that physical activity is a crucial tool in managing anxiety. Among those experiencing the highest stress levels, 72% said regular exercise significantly helps them cope.
Americans Exercise to Manage Election Anxiety
“As Americans experience the growing importance of this time of year, our survey finds that exercise is a healthy and effective way to manage anxiety,” said EoS Fitness Chief Marketing Officer Shilpi Sullivan. “Providing a welcoming space where people can relieve stress, connect with others and improve their well-being is part of our foundation. At EoS, we believe in the value of fitness not just for physical health but as a vital resource for mental clarity and overall wellness. Members find the sense of community and comradery in our gyms to be an integral piece of their gym-going experience.”
Perception vs. Reality of Election Stress
Interestingly, while the majority of Americans admit to feeling election-related anxiety, they believe others are feeling it more. Over 80% of respondents report personal stress, while 93% think others are struggling with higher levels of anxiety. Additionally, 82% believe other people’s election-related stress is moderate to extreme, a full 20% higher than their assessment of their own stress.
Exercise: A Community Solution for Relief
Joella Hopkins, executive vice president of group fitness at EoS Fitness, noted the additional benefits of working out with others. “Exercising in a group or with a partner creates a sense of community and accountability, making it easier to stay consistent,” said Hopkins. “Sharing the experience with others helps build connections, which is incredibly powerful for mental well-being and stress management.”
More Exercise, More Control Over Stress
The survey also found that those who exercise more than three times per week are 34% more likely to feel in control of their stress during this election period. Whether it’s vigorous weightlifting, calming yoga or simply taking a walk, physical activity is a proven remedy for anxiety, and EoS Fitness encourages its members and the communities it serves to prioritize movement for mental clarity and reducing stress.
According to the survey, the top 10 activities respondents use to reduce their anxiety include:
-
Walking
-
Gardening
-
Swimming
-
Weightlifting
-
Running
-
Strength training
-
Cycling
-
Yoga
-
Dancing
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Active meditation
For more tips on incorporating exercise into your routine to combat stress or anxiety, visit eosfitness.com/blog.
About the Survey
This survey was completed using Pollfish, an online surveying platform with a global network of respondents. The random sample of 1,000 participants were adult U.S. residents polled on September 18, 2024.
About EoS Fitness
EoS Fitness, a leader in the fitness industry with its High Value. Low Price. (HVLP)® gyms, is an inclusive and welcoming organization committed to empowering exercise practitioners of all experience levels. With more than 150 gym locations open and on the way in Arizona, Florida, Nevada, Southern California, Texas and Utah, EoS Fitness is rapidly expanding. Providing serious fitness options, EoS Fitness offers the best equipment, high-energy workout classes, top-notch amenities, and extensive personal training options starting at just $9.99 per month. www.EoSfitness.com.
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Contacts
Media Contact:
Melissa Rue
mkr@nstpr.com
208-850-5939
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