Fitness is beneficial to one’s physical and mental health. After two years of the pandemic, people have been feeling stressed, burned out and depressed, making mental health more of a priority than ever. In August at the Black Women’s Expo (BWE), Planet Fitness^® Trainer Monique Davis led a breakout session on the importance of exercise to mental health. Davis is a veteran fitness trainer who works at several PLNTF Holdings locations, including Lincolnwood and Evanston, Illinois. Vanessa Lopez, another PLNTF trainer, also joined with her at the event.

The Black Women’s Expo, also known as BWe Next, took place Aug. 12-14 at McCormack Place in Chicago. The event typically draws 25,000-30,000 people. The Black Women’s Expo happens annually and includes three events held in Atlanta, Chicago and Detroit. This year’s event was the 28th year of BWe.

The BWe Next features topical seminars, general sessions, themed resource pavilions, corporate exhibitions and a small business exhibitor’s marketplace. During the breakout session with Davis and Lopez, the two led a discussion on health equality for black women, physical health and the connection to mental health.

“Planet Fitness is a Judgement Free Zone^® so what better way to show our inclusivity than to participate in the BWe,” said Davis, regarding her session. “We are passionate about supporting all our members and are honored to participate in the empowerment and physical health of black women.”

Planet Fitness also had an activation booth where team members handed out prizes. All attendees will receive a special BWe offer for a Planet Fitness membership.

“We are very excited to be a part of the BWe here in Chicago,” said Ed Bourelly, vice president of marketing for PLNTF. “This event has been held here for close to 30 years with 25,000-plus participants annually and has been integral to creating an uplifting and inspiring environment for black women. Planet Fitness is a perfect fit, as it gives us the opportunity to illustrate how we can enable and empower the community as partners on their wellness and fitness journey.”