Benefits of Finding a Fitness Community

Over the years I’ve noticed a pattern, which is in fact supported by scientific research; having a community to connect with is inspiring, energizing, and motivating. And though communities can serve different purposes, today I will focus in on the benefits of finding a community for group fitness and outdoor adventures!

While fitness can be a very personal journey, the benefits of group fitness tend to outweigh doing fitness on your own. When you find a fitness home – whether that be a gym, a yoga studio, or just a group of people to go outdoors with – you tend to find new friends who will love and support you, sometimes even more than people you’ve known for a long time. If you start to attend just a couple of fitness classes, other participants will start to expect to see you there – they’ll tell you they’ve missed you when you’re away, and will reach out asking when they’ll see you next. This type of camaraderie is difficult to find these days, and you’ll find your new friends keep you motivated to return again and again – not just for the workout, but to continue nurturing these new friendships.

Fitness friends tend to be amazing cheerleaders, and are eager to experiment outside of their comfort zone. They make the perfect people to try something new with – whether that’s trying out a new hike, a different form of fitness, or just shifting your perspective on an aspect of life – they will give you the courage to break free from bad habits and ways to live life anew!

Scientific studies show hard numbers to support these claims. When comparing solo workouts to group fitness, they have found improvements in the physical, mental, and emotional health to be greater in those who take part in group fitness activities. People tend to workout harder, stick with it longer and more regularly, and can benefit from tips and advice from professionals and peers. Plus, stress is reduced even more during group fitness when compared to exercising alone – so grab a buddy and get out to explore!

This is one of the best seasons to experiment with group fitness, because there are options beyond the walls of a fitness centre. Check out general hiking pages on Facebook, free outdoor events put on by gyms, and opportunities for yoga in the park. Or, find a friend and pick a new summer sport or activity to try together! Regardless of if you’re making new friends or reconnecting with a friend you haven’t seen in a while, community fitness could be your next favourite way to spend your leisure time!