JOYFIT Launches Medical Fitness 'Wellness Frontier Ohashi' Targeting Health Improvement

Yamauchi Co. Unveils Wellness Frontier Ohashi

On August 1, 2025, Yamauchi Co., the operator of over 300 sports gyms nationwide such as JOYFIT and FIT365, will open its first medical fitness center, Wellness Frontier Ohashi, in Ohashi, Fukuoka City. This innovative facility combines fitness services with medical support to empower individuals in preventive health care, allowing membership fees to be eligible for medical expense deductions.

Concept and Collaboration with Healthcare Providers

The center aims to evolve from merely 'curing' to 'preventing,' integrating medical insights into fitness regimens. According to the company, preventive measures against lifestyle diseases are essential for extending one’s healthy lifespan, especially in our ever-growing longevity era. To facilitate this, Yamauchi is venturing into the field of medical fitness, transforming traditional fitness spaces into social infrastructures aimed at solving health challenges.

Wellness Frontier Ohashi will operate in collaboration with Dream Gate, a consulting firm specializing in medical fitness. It will feature tailored training programs developed in conjunction with notable physician Akira Nikaido and Dream Gate president Isamu Murakami, ensuring high standards of safety and effectiveness.

Health Promotion Certification and Deduction Eligibility

The facility is set to meet the standards required for certification as a “Health Promotion Facility” by Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, allowing users to have their membership fees deducted from medical expenses based on a doctor’s prescription. In doing so, they aim to make specialized exercise programs more accessible for users before health issues arise, easing economic burdens.

Message from Consulting Physician Akira Nikaido

Dr. Akira Nikaido emphasizes the importance of taking that crucial first step towards fitness. Even when one knows they need to exercise, initiating that journey can be daunting. Wellness Frontier, with its medically-backed personalized programs, makes it easier and safer to start exercising. Dr. Nikaido shares his experiences witnessing numerous transformative moments in people's lives as they embark on their fitness journeys, emphasizing his commitment to support and guide members through this process.

Target Audience and Benefits

The Wellness Frontier is primarily aimed at individuals focused on improving or preventing lifestyle-related ailments. People who may find this program beneficial include:

- Those who have received cautions regarding their blood pressure or blood sugar levels during health check-ups.
- Individuals who are concerned about their lack of exercise but are unsure where to start.
- Anyone who wants to engage in safe and reliable exercise programs supervised by experts.

Upon receiving certification as a designated exercise therapy facility, using a physician’s exercise prescription will allow users to leverage medical expense deductions for their membership costs.

Comprehensive Support Structure

Wellness Frontier provides a systematic program through a five-step approach:
1. Assessment (various measurements and consultations)
2. Counseling by physicians or trained staff
3. Customized program design (based on disease risk evaluation)
4. Implementation support from specialized trainers
5. Reevaluation and program updates approximately every three months

The integrity, safety, and scientific validity of to be adapted programs will be co-developed under the guidance of Dr. Nikaido, who specializes in cardiac rehabilitation, alongside Dream Gate’s representative.

Facility Features

Wellness Frontier Ohashi is designed to offer a spacious and comfortable training environment featuring:

- Cardiovascular training area
- Machine training area
- Free weights section
- Personal session space
- Reception area

Free Trial Announcement

Before the official launch, Wellness Frontier will conduct free trial sessions starting July 19, 2025, which will include counseling, a facility tour, and the opportunity to experience some workout programs. Those interested can reserve spots via the website here.

Facility Overview

- Name: Wellness Frontier Ohashi
- Location: 1-19-16 Ohashi, Minami-Ku, Fukuoka City 815-0033, Japan
- Opening Date: August 1, 2025
- Hours: Open 24/7 (staffed hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM; no staff on Friday)
- Membership Fee: ¥13,200 (including tax)
- Monthly Fee: Starting at ¥7,480 (tax included) for self-service courses. Recommended plans include personal sessions; details available on the website.
- Perk: Membership provides access to all JOYFIT locations nationwide at no extra cost.