While many focus on their physical health, an emphasis on mental wellbeing has also become a popular focus for wellness seekers in recent years. To support mental fitness, Planet Fitness^® franchise Love Group ran a Mileage for Mental Health Challenge in four of its clubs.

As part of the two-week challenge, both members and team members were allowed to participate, and the miles logged on any cardio machine were tracked as part of a friendly competition between the clubs. The mileage was documented and added up daily. Additionally, Love Group donated $1 for every mile logged by participants. People could also donate personally if they wanted, and there were around $50 to $100 donated per club by PF^® members. In total, the donations across all participating clubs came to $7,500.

The challenge was a great way to get members and team members involved to support local mental health facilities. The funds raised were given to several different mental health facilities, including Solvista Health, Youth Alternatives, Health Solutions and SummitStone Health Partners. All these organizations provide mental health services and support to those in need.

“Though we walk our own path and in our own shoes, the Mileage for Mental Health Challenge lets you know you don’t have to walk alone,” said Marcus Meira, general manager of Pueblo, Colorado, club.

This year, the cause was especially near and dear to the franchise group’s hearts because it wanted to honor former team member and fitness trainer Zach Trujillo, who passed away to suicide in June 2023. He was a big part of the success of last year’s event and had previously worked at the mental health facility the group had partnered with.

Trujillo had worked hard to help raise awareness and diminish the stigma attached to mental health. His passing showed the franchise group there is still work to be done, so the group turned its sadness into action to continue the work that Trujillo started within the mental health sector.

The Love Group has run the Mileage for Mental Health Challenge for two years and plans to continue to do it for years to come. “Mileage for Mental Health Challenge shows our members that Planet Fitness recognizes that health is not limited to one’s physical wellbeing, and it shows we are taking steps to help people beyond our four walls,” said Regional Manager Katelynn Chavez.