Originally published on marketbusinessnews.com.
Environmental consciousness is more critical than ever, and every industry is finding ways to implement eco-friendliness in its operations. Fitness expert Eugene Pallisco advocates for more eco-friendly practices in gyms and sports and acknowledges how important it is as time passes.
Here are some of his insights. They offer a compelling roadmap for how fitness enthusiasts and professionals alike can help make the planet and the people living on it a healthier place.
Why Bother With Sustainable Fitness?
The gym and sports fitness industry is immense; each building consumes a lot of energy, water, and other resources just to operate daily. This means gyms’ environmental footprint isn’t insignificant. As a result, it’s worth reducing that footprint as much as possible.
It’s also a fantastic way to set a positive example in your community. It can even be a good look for your gym and attract new members. Many people are now voting with their dollar, meaning they’ll go out of their way to become customers of companies that align with their values.
Energy-Efficient Equipment
Many fitness machines eat up lots of energy, which can contribute to a gym’s overall carbon footprint. However, gym equipment companies are beginning to make products designed with eco-friendliness in mind, such as self-powered treadmills and elliptical machines that generate energy through user activity. Exerting energy when using the equipment to power it is a two-bird, one-stone approach to eco-conscious practices that works surprisingly well.
Energy efficiency isn’t just relegated to the equipment, either. Gyms can also invest in LED lighting, which uses less power and has a longer lifespan compared to traditional bulbs. Additionally, heating and cooling systems can be optimized for energy efficiency through the use of programmable thermostats.
Reducing Waste and Promoting Recycling
Gyms can implement more robust policies to minimize single-use plastics by encouraging members to bring reusable water bottles and providing water refill stations. Eco-friendly cleaning supplies are another great option, as they can replace harsh chemicals that are often harmful to both the environment and the health of those using the machines. Gyms can also offer recycling bins for items like plastic, paper, and old athletic shoes to further sustainability efforts.
Water Conservation
Water is another critical resource for gyms, especially those with swimming pools, showers, and drinking fountains. Implementing water-saving fixtures, such as low-flow showerheads and faucets, can make a significant difference.
For gyms with pools, using pool covers can reduce water evaporation and the need for frequent refills. You can also opt for saline or ultraviolet pool sanitation systems as an alternative to harsh chemicals. This makes the water safer for swimmers and the environment — a true win-win.
The Strength in Sustainability
Incorporating sustainable practices into gyms and sports is so much more than just a trend. It represents a necessary step toward a bright future with a healthy planet.
As Eugene Pallisco illustrates, there are multiple ways to make fitness eco-friendly. From energy-efficient equipment and water conservation to recycling programs and sustainable building materials, every small change can help to lessen a gym’s environmental footprint.
About Eugene Pallisco
Fitness expert and licensed trainer Eugene Pallisco works in Dallas, Texas.
Since he began working with motivational fitness mentors in high school, Eugene has devoted a significant amount of time to sculpting and molding his training philosophy, which is centered on improving others. Before starting his private training firm in the fitness industry, he gained more expertise by working one-on-one with gym patrons after beginning as a group fitness teacher.