‘Bright future’ for exercise in the post-pandemic era


When the pandemic is over, group physical activities in gyms and outdoors will come back stronger. (Pixabay pic)

The pandemic has wreaked havoc on people’s lives, but it has also brought a few transitions that will hopefully be beneficial in the long run. One good side effect is that people are realising the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

Erika Peres, a business leader in the fitness, sports and wellness industry, is originally from Brazil. She has dedicated her life to running sports and fitness companies in Southeast Asia, and believes the fitness industry will grow even when the pandemic is over.

“Awareness of the importance of preventive exercise has increased during this time, and many sedentary people have become interested in their own health, choosing to stick to a lifestyle that will give them the ability to fight illnesses like Covid-19,” she says.

According to her, well-rounded health programmes designed to fight mental issues and comorbidities such as hypertension, obesity and diabetes will become extremely valuable.

She also believes that group physical activities in gyms and outdoors will come back stronger. “After a long period of isolation, people want social and fun activities. They will be held in reconfigured facilities, but it will be a strong trend,” she says.

“There is a world of new and huge possibilities ahead. Although technologies, equipment and facilities may change, human physiology and the need for exercise will always remain.

“The challenge is to build a supportive community to attract everyone, change behaviours, design new business models, and create an irresistible and fun environment with unique trainers and special programmes so that we can make people fall in love with exercise.”

Erika Peres, who is originally from Brazil, is a leader in the fitness, sports and wellness industry. (Erika Peres pic)

A joint effort

Erika also strongly emphasises the role of the government and fitness influencers in ensuring that interest in health and fitness among people does not die down.

“The government, private sector and population will become very important partners and leaders within the global movement, bringing together key players to support actions and communications around Southeast Asia,” she opines.

“The region has recently launched several initiatives to promote physical activity, such as the Ministry of Youth and Sports online programmes, Singapore’s ‘stay active’ campaign, and others. These initiatives will be even stronger with the support of the population.”

She points out that the World Health Organization has developed an integrated approach to combat sedentarism, known as the Global Action Plan on Physical Activity, which can be adapted by governments to encourage fitness.

Fitness is for people of all shapes, sizes, age groups and abilities. (Pixabay pic)

Inclusivity is key

Erika vocalises her support for inclusive fitness. “I am a strong believer in body positivity, and that the entire fitness sector must create programmes that focus on accepting all body shapes and sizes, as well as the most sedentary groups, including the elderly, the physically challenged, and children.”

She explains that, depending on the country and culture, the highest- or lowest-income group might be the most sedentary. “Hence, we need to offer programmes in all economic brackets.”

Erika says it is interesting to see how it has taken a pandemic to make people more aware of the hazards of leading a sedentary lifestyle, and hopes to see more fitness participants in the near future.

Erika Peres is a fitness entrepreneur and influencer. She can be reached on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook.