Article by – Chrissy Newall – Owner, Coach and Group Fitness Instructor. This article has used a reference from Dr Paul Taylors book ‘Death By Comfort’. I highly recommend reading or listening to an audible copy of this book.
In a world where life has never been easier, you would think we would feel better than ever. Food arrives at the door, work can be done from a chair, and most tasks require little physical effort.
Yet as performance coach Dr Paul Taylor reminds us in his book Death by Comfort, today’s adults are the most overweight, stressed, sleep deprived and medicated generation in history. We are living in a comfort crisis, and our bodies and minds are paying the price.
So what is going on? And more importantly, what can we do about it?
Comfort Is Costing Us
Modern living has removed almost all natural daily stressors like movement, physical effort, heat and cold. But our biology has not adapted to a passive lifestyle.
When we do not move enough, fuel our body poorly and avoid challenge, we start to break down:
- Stress increases
- Sleep quality decreases
- Anxiety rises
- Fatigue becomes normal
- Weight creeps up
- Muscles and bones weaken
- Confidence drops
This is not just physical decline. It is deeply tied to mental wellbeing.
Low physical activity is strongly linked to higher rates of depression and anxiety. Diets high in ultra processed foods increase inflammation, disrupt hormones and affect mood regulation. More than 30% of adults and 80% of teenagers are not moving enough, and it is showing.
When the body struggles, the mind does too.
Movement Is Your Built In Anti Stress System
Exercise is one of the most effective tools we have for managing stress and improving mental health. Even short, consistent sessions help:
- Reduce stress hormones
- Increase feel good brain chemicals
- Improve sleep and mood
- Boost self confidence
- Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression
At Bay City Gym we see this every day. Members walk in tired or tense, and walk out feeling lighter, clearer and more positive. Movement changes everything.
Eat for Energy, Mood and Longevity
More than half of the modern diet now comes from ultra processed foods. These foods are engineered to be convenient and tasty, but they do not support long term health or emotional wellbeing.
When we choose whole foods, quality protein, vegetables, fruit and healthy fats, we see:
- Better energy
- Improved mood
- Reduced cravings
- Better body composition
- Lower inflammation
Food shapes how we feel. What we eat is not just fuel, it is information for the brain and body.
Strength Training for Life
As we age, strength training becomes essential. It is not just for athletes. It is for everyone who wants a healthy and independent life.
Strength training helps:
- Build and protect muscle
- Strengthen bones and joints
- Improve balance and movement
- Increase metabolism
- Boost confidence and mental resilience
Members in their forties, fifties, sixties and beyond prove that strength is for every stage of life. Training builds physical capability and mental toughness.
Recovery Supports Growth
Stress is not the enemy. We need it for growth. The problem is too much stress without adequate recovery.
Simple recovery habits matter:
- Prioritise quality sleep
- Walk daily
- Practice gentle breathing or mindfulness
- Stretch and move regularly
- Stay hydrated
- Spend time outside
- Stay connected to others
Consistency in these small habits makes a big difference in energy, clarity and emotional resilience.
The Bay City Way
At Bay City Gym we focus on more than fitness. We help you:
- Build real strength and confidence
- Move in a way that supports everyday life
- Eat in a way that fuels energy and mood
- Stay accountable and supported
- Belong to a positive community
Training is not punishment. It is medicine for the body and mind. It is self respect. And it is one of the fastest ways to feel better, inside and out.
Ready to Build Strength in Body and Mind
Join us for a training plan or small group program designed to boost strength, confidence, energy and resilience.
Whether you are getting started or stepping things up, we are here to help you move, fuel and thrive.
Together Stronger
If you wish to talk more about your health and fitness needs, please call us on 06 843 7478 to book a time for a chat with a trainer.