[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.22.1″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]Stoptober is the NHS campaign that encourages smokers to quit. It\u2019s based on the thinking that is someone can stop for 28 days, they’re five times more likely to quit for good. For gym owners, Stoptober is a chance to support your community’s health and attract people who are making this major lifestyle change.<\/p>\n
Stoptober is the NHS’s annual campaign encouraging smokers to quit for October. Launched in 2012, it’s based on evidence that making it through the first month dramatically improves the chances of giving up smoking for good. As well as having a memorable catchy name, Stoptober provides resources, support tools, and community.<\/p>\n
You know what else provides support and community for people trying to give up smoking? Your gym. Stoptober can be a great time to attract new members people who are trying to stop smoking), and a reminder to support existing members who might still smoke or vape.<\/p>\n
There are around 6 million smokers in the UK, across all generations and all demographics. Many are desperate to give up, and looking for positive habits to replace smoking. It\u2019s the ideal time to position your gym as a supportive partner.<\/p>\n
Short answer: yes, it can help. Exercise can’t directly replace smoking, but it’s a powerful tool for managing the process. Research shows that 5 minutes of moderate exercise can reduce cravings, and regular activity reduces withdrawal symptoms like irritability and poor concentration.<\/p>\n
Many people worry about putting on weight if they give up smoking. Exercise is a great way to tackle this, and it improves exercise performance, cardiorespiratory health and so much more. <\/p>\n
Within weeks of stopping smoking, lung function improves, making training easier and more enjoyable. This creates a positive loop where exercise supports smoking cessation, and not smoking helps them get fitter more quickly. <\/p>\n
Want to get into the science side of it? Smoking delivers nicotine, which triggers dopamine release. When someone stops smoking, their brain experiences a dopamine deficit, leading to cravings, mood swings, and (often) falling off the wagon.<\/p>\n
Exercise offers an alternative source of dopamine, as well as endorphins and serotonin, creating a natural high that can partially replace the chemical rewards of smoking. It’s not identical, and of course it takes more effort than lighting up a cigarette, but if you can get people past the other barriers to exercise, it can help rebalance brain chemistry during those difficult early weeks.<\/p>\n
Beyond neurochemistry, exercise helps people give up smoking by creating a new identity\u2014being someone who exercises conflicts with being a smoker. As people get fitter, they become more invested in their health journey, and this makes smoking feel counterproductive. The self-esteem boost from achieving fitness goals strengthens resolve, and the gym community can keep them on track.<\/p>\n
Stoptober gives you a chance to connect with people who are working on health improvements. Here’s how to attract this audience:<\/p>\n
Whether it’s new members joining for Stoptober or existing members attempting to give up smoking or vaping, your gym team can make a real difference:<\/p>\n
Being part of EGYM Hussle\u2019s network gives you access to incremental revenue schemes, via their partnerships with companies and private health care providers. As more employees take part in Stoptober, employers need gym partners who are part of the change.<\/p>\n