Stepz Fitness has implemented a carefully curated and holistic interior design approach across its wellness centres to stimulate psychological and physiological responses in our patrons. 

This fresh approach differs to other gyms across the industry and can enhance the ability of Stepz patrons to exercise in a more peaceful, productive and positive state of mind. 

According to Sydney based clinical psychologist, Georgia MacNevin: “The design of our physical surroundings can have a significant impact on our psychological state and wellbeing.” 

Holistic interior design is concerned with the wellness of the mind, body and spirit of the individuals that inhabit the space.

Stepz Fitness has embraced a fresh approach to its interior design and layout, by adding indoor plants, wooden materials and communal tables near the entry that are welcoming to patrons in a non-intimidating and comforting environment.

Sam Waller, the Franchisor of Stepz Fitness, said: “That approach to holistic interiors allowed us to create a new design using more natural materials and calming interiors, which is not common in the health and fitness industry.”

“We have created a new space that allows people to feel better when they’re walking in and focuses their minds on their workout and themselves, as opposed to worrying about what other people are thinking.”   

The physical and mental health of our patrons is seen as a marriage between two equal and interconnected entities, whose individual conditions determine the balance of wellness experienced by the whole. 

To help keep the romance alive, Stepz wellness centres have incorporated specific aesthetics, materials and elements derived from nature and psychological research, which Ms MacNevin says can boost the ability of the mind and body to feel calm, collected and happy.

Nature is the OG of fitness venues in the world, with an extensive selection of geographical ‘equipment’ that has enticed humans to exercise in its elements and terrains for time immemorial. 

Stepz Fitness has recognised that most gyms are devoid of natural beauty, affording little-to-no room for any of those energising elements to exist in the room and give life to their patrons. 

There have been many studies into the psychological and physiological benefits of natural environments leading to a range of positive outcomes for our wellbeing, including “stress reduction, improved mood, enhanced attention, and cognitive functioning,” according to Ms MacNevin.  

Ms MacNevin said: “Natural materials like those used in the Stepz wellness centres can have a calming effect… [and] are great for increasing positivity and productivity.”

That is why Stepz Fitness has invited nature into the gym to join our patrons on their exercise journey, by adding indoor plants and greenery to each workout space.

Ms MacNevin said: “These days, psychologists are prescribing outdoor activities like gardening and hiking to address a range of mental health issues.” 

She continued: “Being in open green spaces helps clear the mind and makes people feel happier or less stressed… [and] including that in the Stepz Fitness environment can be beneficial to their moods and general wellbeing.”

According to a recent survey by Arboretum, 42 per cent of 2,000 participants said that being around plants improved their mental health. 

Indoor plants also assist in improving the air quality of interior spaces, which is particularly important in workout environments where physical exertion is key, as patrons need all the oxygen and purified air they can get. 

Meanwhile, maximising the amount of natural light that filters into each room was an important consideration of the Stepz Fitness interior design team. 

Layla Metcalfe, an experienced naturopath at Layla Metcalfe Naturopathy in Byron Bay Shire, said: “natural light is one of the most important natural elements to filter into any indoor environment, offering health benefits to Stepz patrons inhabiting that space.”  

She continued: “Not only is it your body’s best source of vitamin D, which boosts the immune system, but also a crucial ingredient to increasing mental health and productivity… [while] assisting the body in absorbing melatonin to regulate sleep cycles more efficiently.”

Exercising in a room that screams self-love and self-care is what Stepz Fitness prides itself on offering its patrons.