By Jordan Gonzalez
Why Physical Health and Mental Wellness Go Hand in Hand
Working out isn’t just about strength and endurance—it’s one of the best ways to manage stress, improve mood, and support mental wellness. Salt Lake City has long recognized the connection between body and mind by offering strong support systems and a variety of fitness options suited for all goals and backgrounds.
Top Local Fitness Spaces to Consider
PEAK Health & Fitness at the University of Utah
Operated in partnership between the College of Health and the Osher Center for Integrative Health, PEAK provides not just fitness classes like Zumba, yoga, strength training, and bootcamp, but also educational workshops around nutrition, stress management, and mindful eating. It’s a resource both for university employees and community members.
Gyms, Yoga Studios, and More Across SLC
From drop-in yoga at studios like Salt Lake Power Yoga to large gyms with full amenities, there’s something for everyone. Community centers offer lower-cost memberships, while boutique studios often focus on specialized formats or holistic experiences. For instance, PEHPplus offers discounted rates at select locations—useful if you’re weighing cost alongside access.
Local Mental Health Supports to Know
Crisis Help and Hotlines
If you or someone you know is in crisis, SafeUT is a free, 24/7 app offering emotional support from licensed clinicians. The University of Utah and surrounding counties also provide several hotlines and walk-in behavioral health clinic options.
Ongoing Counseling and Community Support
Organizations like Utah 211 provide counseling, outpatient treatment, and local-level support groups. For students, the university offers wellness coaching, behavioral clinics, and mindfulness workshops. There are also programs focused specifically on recovery, resilience, and self-help that run throughout the year.
Tips for Staying Healthy Both Physically and Mentally
- Consistency over intensity: Choose activities you enjoy—walking trails, dance classes, lifting, yoga—anything that feels good and keeps you moving.
- Sleep and rest are non-negotiable: Quality rest supports recovery, cognition, and overall emotional health.
- Community helps: Group fitness, team sports, or peer support groups are a great way to build connections, accountability, and mood lifts.
- Progress, not perfection: Small improvements with nutrition, mindset, or movement deliver big returns over time.
- Know when to reach out: Make note of available mental health resources—hotlines, counseling, peer support—before you need them, so you can act quickly when you do.
How to Get Started Without Overwhelm
Begin by mapping your week: schedule two 30-minute movement sessions and one mindfulness or relaxation practice. Explore a fitness space near you—many offer free trials or drop-in options. If counseling feels unfamiliar, start with an app or peer group. Track your progress in a notebook or app to see how small steps add up.
Salt Lake City has the tools and support to help you live well—and they’re built for people just like you, whether you’re just starting out or looking to deepen your practice.