The benefits of working out in a group
By Hannah Massey
May 7, 2024
Image credit: Photo from Recwell UMD Website
Recently, group workouts have become a staple in fitness routines for many, offering many fun, exciting ways to get fit. These sessions, ranging from high-intensity interval training to calming yoga classes, provide numerous benefits beyond physical health.
Group fitness classes offer a social environment that can make exercising more enjoyable. These interactions can lead to new friendships and a sense of community that keeps participants returning. For many, the social aspect of group workouts is a major draw, as it combats the isolation that can sometimes accompany solo fitness regimes.
"Everyone feeds off each other’s energy more when they are together," said Jordan Snarski, a yoga flow instructor and junior majoring in government and politics.
Snarski added that participants who attend with friends feel less pressure while working out, allowing them to have more fun.
"Don’t be so hard on yourself; everyone who comes to a workout class has the same goals in mind,” Snarski said.
Group fitness classes offer a social environment that can make exercising more enjoyable. These interactions can lead to new friendships and a sense of community that keeps participants returning. For many, the social aspect of group workouts is a major draw, as it combats the isolation that can sometimes accompany solo fitness regimes.
"Everyone feeds off each other’s energy more when they are together," said Jordan Snarski, a yoga flow instructor and junior majoring in government and politics.
Snarski added that participants who attend with friends feel less pressure while working out, allowing them to have more fun.
"Don’t be so hard on yourself; everyone who comes to a workout class has the same goals in mind,” Snarski said.
Image credit: Photo from Recwell UMD Website
Being part of a workout group can greatly increase accountability. It’s easier to skip a session when you are going alone than when you know your absence will be noticed by a group or a friendly instructor who expects you to show up. This sense of responsibility can significantly improve consistency in exercise habits.
“I feel held accountable to try,” said Eve Orellana, a junior majoring in immersive media design and Eppley staff member.
The benefits of group workouts extend well beyond physical health. Participating in group exercise has been shown to reduce stress, alleviate symptoms of depression and boost overall mood. The combination of endorphins released during physical activity and the social interaction involved can be a powerful tool for improving mental health.
“Coming to the classes keeps your mind not thinking about school and work and life. It really helps not just physical health but mental health,” said Wade Lai, a first-year graduate student.
Group workouts offer a dynamic and supportive environment that can help you achieve your fitness goals while providing social and mental health benefits. Whether you are a fitness newbie or a seasoned athlete, the structure, motivation and community found in group exercise classes can elevate your health journey in a way that solo workouts simply cannot match. So next time you ponder a new fitness regime, consider the power of working out in a group– it might just be the game-changer you need.
"Don’t be so hard on yourself; everyone who comes to a workout class has the same goals in mind,” Snarski said.
“I feel held accountable to try,” said Eve Orellana, a junior majoring in immersive media design and Eppley staff member.
The benefits of group workouts extend well beyond physical health. Participating in group exercise has been shown to reduce stress, alleviate symptoms of depression and boost overall mood. The combination of endorphins released during physical activity and the social interaction involved can be a powerful tool for improving mental health.
“Coming to the classes keeps your mind not thinking about school and work and life. It really helps not just physical health but mental health,” said Wade Lai, a first-year graduate student.
Group workouts offer a dynamic and supportive environment that can help you achieve your fitness goals while providing social and mental health benefits. Whether you are a fitness newbie or a seasoned athlete, the structure, motivation and community found in group exercise classes can elevate your health journey in a way that solo workouts simply cannot match. So next time you ponder a new fitness regime, consider the power of working out in a group– it might just be the game-changer you need.
"Don’t be so hard on yourself; everyone who comes to a workout class has the same goals in mind,” Snarski said.