In the hustle and bustle of Singapore’s urban landscape, amidst the towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, there’s a quiet revolution taking place – one that’s redefining what it means to be healthy and whole. It’s a movement fuelled not just by the desire to sculpt perfect bodies, but by a deeper yearning for balance, connection, and fulfilment in every aspect of life. And at the heart of this movement lies the evolving gym culture, where individuals are discovering the transformative power of holistic wellness.

According to the Singapore Fitness Trends Study 2024 by Virgin Active among 1,000 respondents, 86% of those with gym membership go to the gym at least once a week, with 25% of them visiting more than three times in a week.

It is interesting to note that 87% pointed out that recovery Spaces are valuable to them, 73% would like to have recreational spaces, 71% think that wellness programmes are vital and 60% of respondents say that community-focused social bonding activities are of importance to them.

Singaporeans can go beyond physical workouts in the gym now

These insights have changed how we envision the future of gyms. Imagine a space that transcends the traditional gym experience. A space brimming with intentionality, designed to nurture your spirit, quiet your mind, and foster a sense of community – all while empowering you to achieve your physical goals. We see this as the future of wellness.

Gone are the days when gyms were solely for pumping iron or logging miles on treadmills. Today’s well-being havens like the revamped Virgin Active clubs cater to the multifaceted nature of health. Members come not just to sweat, but to unwind, recharge, and connect. This reflects a growing understanding that true well-being is a symphony of physical fitness, mental clarity, and emotional well-being.

From our experience, gym-goers welcome a multi-dimensional path to wellness too. They particularly enjoy the modern approach to exercise, which offers a curated selection of programmes, from high-intensity workouts to the serenity of yoga and pilates, catering to different fitness levels and preferences.

In addition, they indulge in a variety of relaxation experiences, from invigorating cold plunge, ice rooms and steam rooms to rejuvenating sleep pods. In fact, cold plunge can help improve mental health, reduce soreness in muscles, aid in recovery and also bolster our immune systems. One’s gym routine can now encompass a well-deserved power nap or a pampering session too, as the lines are blurring between gyms and luxury spas.

Users also appreciate a balance between training and recovery as crucial aspects of well-being. Recovery options like sound baths, restorative yoga classes, and dedicated recovery zones equipped with advanced tools are popular in helping gym-goers to rejuvenate.

Lastly, forming social connections is often overlooked, but a core part in boosting one’s well-being. Beyond acting as a space for functional purposes, common spaces allow for interactions between like-minded people and can help in community-building, keeping users returning to the gym.

For many Singaporeans, this journey towards holistic wellness begins with a simple realisation – that self-care is not selfish, but essential. In a society that values productivity and achievement above all else, it is easy to neglect our own well-being in pursuit of success. But as more people recognise the toll that stress, burnout, and unhealthy habits can take on their lives, they are reclaiming their right to prioritise self-care and wellness.

While the path to holistic wellness is a personal journey, gyms can do more to encourage a multifaceted approach that caters to the mind, body, and spirit as we redefine what it means to be well.

I encourage everyone to explore the ever-evolving landscape of wellness facilities and embark on a transformative journey towards a life of vitality and well-being.

Contributed by Julien Bera, Country Director, Southeast Asia, Virgin Active

Julien Bera is the Country Director of Southeast Asia, Virgin Active. His main responsibilities are to grow and develop Virgin Active’s brand presence and profitability in Singapore and Thailand. He aims to ensure a safe and world-class experience for all Virgin Active members, in the clubs, in outdoor locations, or online.

Julien loves sports and when not having a personal training or Reformer Pilates session at Virgin Active, he plays tennis and is part of a local club in Singapore for training and competition.

Images: Virgin Active Singapore