INDUSTRY NEWS

We believe in bringing the benefits of exercise to as many people as possible. One way we do this is by promoting exercise, in all its forms and modalities, through the New Zealand media, as well as advocating for the role of exercise in wellness and health. See below for examples of our recent work.

Archived News: Links available at the bottom of this page.

July 2025

CEO Richard Beddie on Seven Sharp

15 July 2025

Seven Sharp Interview

ExerciseNZ CEO Richard Beddie appears on Seven Sharp  to discuss the exercise technique of hanging – how to do it safely, the potential benefits, and why it’s not the magic bullet some claim it to be.

CEO 5 x 5

11 July 2025

Thrive in Dry July – Why Exercise is the Perfect Partner for Sobriety

10 July 2025

Dry July 2025

This Dry July, ExerciseNZ is highlighting the powerful role movement plays in supporting alcohol-free living. Exercise is more than just a health tool, it’s a proven support for mental wellbeing, behaviour change, and long-term wellbeing.

  • Reduces alcohol cravings and anxiety
  • Improves mood and sleep quality
  • Builds emotional resilience
  • Creates healthy routines and structure
  • Encourages social connection through group fitness

Exercise is more than a distraction, it’s a positive replacement. By swapping the cost of alcohol for a gym membership or yoga class, you’re investing in your own health, energy, and clarity.

CEO 5 x 5

4 July 2025

June 2025

Daily exercise alone may not be enough to combat a sedentary lifestyle

23 June 2025

Breakfast interview

CEO Richard Beddie spoke on Breakfast, highlighting the WHO’s often overlooked recommendation to include strength-based training in our weekly exercise routines. He also explained the popular sit-to-stand test to the hosts.

International Yoga Day 2025: Yoga’s Timeless Path to Well-being

19 June 2025

International Yoga Day 2025

This International Yoga Day (Saturday 21 June), ExerciseNZ and YogaNZ are celebrating one of the world’s oldest yet most relevant practices for overall health. With benefits that go far beyond the mat, yoga continues to improve mental, emotional, physical, and social well-being.

  • Reduces stress and anxiety
  • Improves sleep and focus
  • Boosts flexibility and strength
  • Supports emotional balance
  • Promotes brain health and clarity

Yoga is more than just exercise, its enduring popularity reflects its true value as a lifelong journey toward balance, resilience, and inner peace.

CEO 5 x 5

19 June 2025

CEO 5 x 5

6 June 2025

Men’s Health Week: Strong for Life, Not Just for Looks

06 June 2025

Men’s Health Week: Strong for Life, Not Just for Looks

This Men’s Health Week (9–15 June), ExerciseNZ is calling on men to rethink strength – not just in the gym, but in how we care for our bodies, minds and futures. New research shows pushing too hard can hurt your heart. 

  • Train with intention
  • Seek support 
  • Connect to your why
  • Connect with others
  • Start small

Real strength is about consistency, connection, and doing what lasts. Move more, stress less, and live longer.

May 2025

CEO 5 x 5

23 May 2025

CEO 5 x 5

16 May 2025

Winter Wellness Starts with Sleep: The Overlooked Key to Achieving Exercise Goals

15 May 2025

Winter Wellness Starts with Sleep

As temperatures drop, it’s tempting to push harder in the gym — but what if your real progress hinges on rest?
New research shows that just three nights of poor sleep can harm your heart — and even regular exercise can’t undo the damage.
This winter, ExerciseNZ is encouraging Kiwis to train smarter, not harder, by prioritising the most overlooked pillar of wellness: sleep.

  • Boost recovery
  • Protect your heart
  • Power up your performance
Sleep isn’t slacking — it’s strategy. Make it your winter superpower.

CEO 5 x 5

9 May 2025

Breakfast Interview

Dispelling Myths from Online Media Influencers on Women’s Strength

5 May 2025

Hear our CEO and a REPs registered PT dispel some myths based on online comments by social media influencers on women’s strength.

CEO 5 x 5

2 May 2025

International Pilates Day – 3 May

1 May 2025

This International Pilates Day (May 3), join a global movement that’s reshaping bodies and minds. With Pilates booming worldwide — and over 50% of Gen Z in Aotearoa jumping on board — it’s more than a trend, it’s a lifestyle.
From stronger cores to calmer minds, science says Pilates works:
  • 30% drop in anxiety and depression
  • 40% fall risk reduction in older adults
  • Boosted mood, confidence and flexibility
Whether you’re a mat newbie or a seasoned reformer fan, everyone has a place on the mat. Join ExerciseNZ and @pilatesaotearoa in celebrating movement that matters.

April 2025

CEO 5 x 5

24 April 2025

CEO 5 x 5

11 April 2025

ExerciseNZ CEO Interviewed on Breakfast – New Research

10 April 2025

CEO 5 x 5

4 April 2025

ExerciseNZ CEO Interviewed on Seven Sharp – Fit 4 Office Challenge

1 April 2025

Exercise New Zealand CEO Richard Beddie, is interviewed by Seven Sharp about the Fit 4 Office Challenge, where MP’s were used as role models to showcase physical activity – as it’s not only good for our health but also good for the economy to have more kiwis physically active. 

MP’s Lead by Example as Fit 4 Office Challenge Wraps Up

1 April 2025

Exercise New Zealand congratulates all participating Members of Parliament for prioritising movement, proving that even the busiest schedules can accommodate physical activity.

Though the F4O Challenge has ended, the need for regular movement continues. Physical inactivity costs the New Zealand economy over $2.3 billion annually, including $650 million in healthcare costs – highlighting that movement isn’t just a personal benefit but a national one.