Reducing Plastic in Your Workouts
You know we are all about sustainable fitness, which is why we are always thinking about ways to reduce our plastic usage.
Fitness is an area of our lives that is meant to focus on our health and make us feel good. Unfortunately, when founding Form, we found there was a disconnect in the fitness industry between the overall goal (help people be fit and healthy) and the actual practice (lots of polyester, PVC and plastic that pollutes our world and our health).
Plastic seems to pervade every aspect of our lives, from clothing to food. However, there are brands making dedicated efforts to reduce the influx of virgin plastic and provide alternatives that reduce our dependence on it. It's encouraging to see sustainable options emerging in the market as alternatives to traditional fitness items.
Let's explore the various components of a fitness routine and shed light on where plastic commonly lurks. By making simple changes, we can reduce or eliminate plastic from our fitness routines, both at home and on the go, whether it pertains to clothing choices or habits.
Tools and equipment
Yoga, in particular, requires minimal equipment, but having the right tools can enhance your practice. Fortunately, the yoga industry has embraced natural, recyclable, recycled, and biodegradable materials. Many brands offer yoga mats, straps, blocks, and wheels made from cork, cotton, natural/recycled rubber, and biodegradable materials, completely free of plastic.
For strength equipment, like kettlebells and dumbbells, it becomes a bit more challenging to find plastic-free options. While some may be encased in rubber or leather, these materials tend to be less affordable. If looking for a sustainable home gym setup, consider purchasing second-hand weights which then prevents them from ending up in landfills.
Activewear
Ever wonder what our clothes are made of? Most activewear used to be made out of polyester or poly materials, which in essence are plastics made from fossil fuels. However, nowadays so many brands (such as BAM, Tala, Pagaia, and others) are making progress with sustainable fabrics, using plant-based and natural materials, or/and recycling existing plastic (such as plastic bottles) instead of letting it go to landfill.
Similarly, when it comes to trainers or sneakers there are brands (such as AllBirds, On and Veja) using bioplastics, plant fibres and natural fibres to make the majority of their products. Equally, other brands use recycled plastic waste to use in the products, such as the Adidas x Parley collaboration.
Many brands offer take-back programs to recycle items into new ones, ensuring clothes and shoes don't end up in landfills. Others, like Patagonia, provide repair programs and DIY solutions to extend the lifespan of garments.
Food and beverages
A quick way to cut down on your plastic waste is to reduce plastic-wrapped snacks or drinks. The easy way out for drinks is a reusable water bottle - and I think we have all banged about them for ages now. Be it your Stanley cup or your Chilly’s bottle, it is always good to have at hand!
It is a little trickier for food items but not necessarily impossible. Whole fruits, nuts, or homemade energy bars are the perfect option, especially if packed in a reusable container. Many brands make their protein bars with wrappers that, whilst plastic, can be recycled at supermarkets. And, there are even some wrapper-less bars such as OGT who have developed the first edible wrapper!
It's true that plastic finds its way into various aspects of our fitness routines, but by being mindful of its origins and considering whether items can be recycled, biodegraded, or are destined for landfills, we can make informed decisions about what becomes part of our routines and lives. Some changes are easy, while others may pose greater challenges, but every small step we take helps in our collective fight against plastic to create a more sustainable planet.
Lastly, remember to support fitness brands that prioritise sustainability and offer eco-friendly products. Companies that use recycled packaging, provide take-back programs, or actively work to reduce their environmental impact should be celebrated and promoted, as they contribute to building a more sustainable world.
Read next >>>
