Anytime Fitness has dipped its toes into the world of podcast, launching its own three-part podcast series, 'Tread Mates', featuring Australian personalities Turiya Pitt, Osher Günsberg, and Paralympian Troy Sachs OAM.

The series, developped in partnership with creative agency Akcelo, coincides with the fitness franchise's ' 'Tread as One' event on October 12, which aims to raise funds for R U OK?, a charity supporting mental wellbeing.

The podcast aims to support mental health and social connection through exercise by providing a virtual 'mate' for listeners while they run, walk, or roll.

Research from Anytime Fitness shows that 51% of Australians don't have someone to exercise with, and 91% are more likely to open up about personal challenges while exercising with a friend. 'Tread as One' aims to raise $300,000 this year, adding to the $1.2 million it has already raised for R U OK? since 2019.

Anytime Fitness Group Chief Marketing Officer, Caitlin Bancroft, said: "As a brand committed to fostering a supportive community, and a year-round commitment to supporting mental health, we want to encourage more Aussies to move with mates, check in on them and ask them if they need support. It can be hard to admit when things aren’t OK but moving with friends can make it easier. We want to see as many people as possible running, walking or rolling on 12 Oct for Tread as One so we can raise more funds for our long term charity partner R U OK?."

CEO at Akcelo, Aden Hepburn, said: "The only thing better than moving for your mind is moving with a mate. Tread Mates allows Aussies to feel like they have a friend with them while they exercise, offering companionship and inspiring stories that make movement more meaningful. We’re proud to partner with Anytime Fitness to create a campaign that not only promotes physical fitness but also drives real conversations and donations for mental health."