The Answer isn't 'just go to the Gym'

I wrote this after reading a recent article in the Times. The government and decision makers need to stop looking at exercise as a means to just to fix a problem. Exercise is preventative medicine and we all need to take these drugs

https://www.thetimes.com/article/0d86b935-445f-418c-b60b-bdfdd6567fb5?shareToken=6d1c24c415c8078ed7cd07d7362fe525

“Just go to the gym” is often touted as a cure-all for stress, back pain, weight gain, or fatigue. But that approach is too simplistic and even misleading.

As a personal trainer & nutritionist in Pontcanna, Cardiff, I believe the gym should be framed not as a fix-it shop, but as proactive preventive healthcare: a place you visit regularly to maintain resilience, not just patch things up when they break.

What’s Wrong With “Just Go to the Gym”

Ignored root causes: Chronic issues like back pain, poor posture, or metabolic dysfunction rarely fix themselves after a bit of cardio.

Lack of education: Without guidance on form, effort, and progression, workouts can be ineffective—or worse, cause injury.

Real-world barriers: Time, confidence, finances, health issues, neurodiversity—these matter for clients and need acknowledging.

Shift the Conversation: Gym = Preventive Clinic

1. Muscle as Medicine

Evidence shows strength training reduces premature mortality by 10–20% from all causes—including heart disease and cancer—with just 30–60 minutes per week .

2. Functional Fitness = Independence

Training for everyday movements (e.g. squats, carries) preserves mobility, balance, and ability to live independently—key as we age .

3. Bone & Metabolic Health

Resistance exercise boosts bone density, slows osteoporosis, improves glucose metabolism and reduces cardiovascular risk .

4. Brain Health

Strength and aerobic training both support mood, cognition, neuroplasticity, and reduced anxiety .

In Context: NHS & Healthcare Burden

NHS stats show exercise cuts risks of type 2 diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and several cancer and could reduce NHS demand by promoting prevention over treatment .

A simple mindset shift viewing the gym like an “NHS Health Check with weights” can alleviate healthcare pressure and boost community wellness .

How I Approach Training

✅ 1:1 Personal Training

Tailored programmes addressing posture, movement patterns, and longevity not quick fixes.

✅ Pilates for Functional Strength

Builds core resilience, balance, and mobility foundational for injury prevention.

✅ Nutrition Coaching

Supporting muscle, metabolic health, fat loss, and energy levels sustainably.