MEN’ S HEALTH
FIGHTING FOR MEN’ S HEALTH
WITHfitness, strength
and support
IF YOU’ RE A MAN LIVING IN SOUTH AFRICA, CHANCES ARE YOU’ VE FELT THE PRESSURE TO KEEP THINGS TOGETHER – BUT QUIETLY. THE JOB, THE BILLS, THE FAMILY, THE EXPECTATIONS … IT ALL ADDS UP, AND YOUR PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH OFTEN TAKE A BACK SEAT.
According to the SA Depression and Anxiety Group, one in three South Africans will experience a mental health issue during their lifetime, yet only one in 10 receives the help they need.
But here’ s the thing. You’ re not alone, even if it feels that way.“ Too many men are silently struggling because we’ ve been conditioned to‘ man up’ instead of speaking up,” says Tim Carter, Head of Brand at Planet Fitness.“ But what we want men to know is this: we see you, we hear you, and we’ re here for you.”
One of the most natural and effective ways to boost your mental health is also among the most accessible. When you move your body, you’ re doing far more than just burning calories.
Exercise has also been shown to help manage depression and anxiety symptoms, improve sleep, and give you a sense of control – something that can feel scarce when life feels heavy.
MENTAL HEALTH IS ONLY ONE ASPECT OF THE OVERALL PICTURE. EXERCISE PLAYS A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN PREVENTING AND MANAGING SOME OF THE MORE COMMON HEALTH PROBLEMS THAT MEN ENCOUNTER:
Heart disease and high blood pressure: Men are more likely to experience heart attacks earlier in life than women. Regular cardio and strength training can help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and maintain a healthy heart.
Erectile dysfunction: This may indicate a cardiovascular issue.“ Exercise improves circulation, boosts testosterone, and gives you back your confidence,” says Carter.“ It’ s a triple win.”
Low testosterone: As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline, which can affect energy, mood, and libido. Resistance training and high-intensity interval training( HIIT) can help sustain healthier hormone levels and provide a genuine energy boost.
Obesity and abdominal fat: Fat around the stomach raises your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other long-term illnesses. Exercise, especially when paired with a balanced diet, is one of the most effective ways to burn this type of fat and boost your metabolic health.
You don’ t need to spend hours in the gym every day to start feeling better. Carter suggests beginning with 30 minutes of moderate exercise, three times a week. Whether that’ s a brisk walk on the treadmill, a weight session with a friend, or a group class, the key is to get started.
“ Movement creates momentum. And once that momentum builds, everything else – your mood, your energy, your motivation – starts to shift too.”
ONE LAST WORD OF ADVICE
There’ s no shame in seeking help. In fact, it’ s one of the bravest things you can do. IB
48 INBOUND SA / DECEMBER 2025