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Why You Should Join A Social Fitness Group Today!

Written by Dr. Pramod Mane on Mon, 12 February 2024

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Social fitness groups, whether virtual or traditional, are fun ways to stay healthy and fit, to connect with and motivate each other to make healthy lifestyle choices.

There is no greater motivation for fitness than working out in a group. Surely, many people would agree with this statement. There can be many benefits of social exercising. When you are surrounded with people, doing the same exercises as you, it definitely increases your competitive spirit. It makes you more accountable to attend every fitness class. You don't give up as easily as you do when you are alone. 

If you are one of those people constantly seeking motivation for fitness, and looking to be socially fit, social activities for fitness and health can through social fitness groups are perfect for you. Social fitness groups may not be an unfamiliar concept, since there has been a tremendous uplift, specifically over the past few years.  

Virtual vs traditional groups: what do you prefer? 

Traditional fitness groups are locally located, and can meet personally to perform the group activities. You might have seen a group of elderly women walking together in a park, or a group of runners belonging to a runner's groups practicing together.  

However, these days there are no geographical limitations for any social fitness groups. There are virtual fitness platforms where the group members can meet, interact with and motivate each other. There are apps for finding and becoming a part of the fitness group,  with group members tracking their own and other's progress through various features of the app and different gadgets that can be worn on the body. Doesn't it motivate you when you see your buddies completing their half marathon training which you might also have done had you pushed yourself a little more! 

Be spoilt for choice 

There are as many groups as there are interests! For every fitness activity you name, there is at least one group, virtual or traditional. Hiking groups, walking groups, zumba groups, pilates clubs, laughter groups, runners' groups, and many more. There are even social fitness groups based on different fitness objectives. Weight loss groups, weight gain groups, half marathon groups, body-building groups are some of them. And lastly, there are groups based on genders and age, such as senior citizen groups, kids activity groups, all-women group etc. 

Here are a few social fitness groups you may consider joining: 

1. Hiking is fun with a group 

Going hiking in groups is a very popular fitness activity, where hiking enthusiasts decide on a hiking spot and perform the activity together. The advantage of doing it in a  group is the safety it offers, and the group members can share tips and tricks with each other. Hiking as a fitness activity promotes muscle-building, facilitates good circulation, and strengthens the mind-body connection. 

2. Learn and do yoga asanas with a group 

Yoga groups include people coming together to perform similar asanas, which are led by professional yoga instructors. Yoga involves different techniques of breathing, meditation, relaxation, stretching, and physical postures.  

Laughter clubs are one type of yoga group that engages in different types of group laughter in addition to the stretching and breathing exercises. Health benefits of yoga include helping to keep the mind and body calm, eliminating toxins, suppressing stress hormones and strengthening the body's defence mechanism to fight off infections. 

Practicing yoga in groups helps to share energy among yourself, pushes you beyond your limits and improves your overall confidence and consistency. So, practice it in a group to reap all the yoga benefits! 

3. Dancercise with a Zumba group 

Zumba is a form of fitness which involves different kinds of dance moves, giving a full-body workout. It is a fun, exciting, energising form of workout for all of you who love grooving to music beats. 

Zumba is majorly designed as 45-60 minute group classes led by a trained Zumba instructor. They are available at different intensities for all age groups from kids to elderly people. Zumba includes movement of every part of your body from head to toe. Zumba benefits include helping you burn calories, strengthening your body, reducing excess fat and improving your overall immunity. 

This form of group exercise exposes you to an enjoyable social environment, effectively builds your stamina and encourages you to keep going till you reach your fitness goal.  

4. Walk with like-minded people 

Walking can become boring with time, and can demotivate you; not when do with a group! Walking groups have become very common, as groups members motivate each other and keep pace with each other's progress. These groups can be a boon for people who hate to exercise alone. Walking in groups have several health benefits including a powerful boost to immunity

5. Socialize with elderly fitness groups 

Elderly fitness groups involve different kinds of stretching, balancing, strengthening and flexibility exercises designed for older adults. A study conducted by the University of British Columbia stated that older adults are more active and consistent with their physical exercise when they do it with people of their age. 

Exercising for seniors is important to help maintain their physical and emotional health. They usually have decreased physical activity due to their age, therefore it is important to constantly motivate them. Elderly fitness groups is one such method to encourage them. 

Social fitness groups for the elderly not only provide physical fitness but also increase social interaction among these age groups. Regular interaction with people helps to decrease their chances of developing anxiety, loneliness and depression. These methods enhance their immunity and improve their overall quality of life. 

Surround yourself with people who inspire you to keep going until you reach your fitness goal. A few simple changes that you make in your daily life can help you lead a longer, healthier life. So, what are you waiting for? Find your driving force, choose your social fitness group and join one today! 

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Dr. Pramod Mane

A Doctor of Medicine (MD) in Pharmacology., currently based in Mumbai, India, Dr Pramod Mane, comes with an experience of more than 20 years of working in Medical Affairs in the Pharmaceuticals & Nutraceutical Industry. Director of Medical Services at Mega Lifesciences since 2008, Dr Mane has been associated with several MNCS in the areas of Medical Affairs, Medical Services, Medico-marketing, Pharmacovigilance & Clinical trials in his illustrious career.

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Our team of experts frequently monitors developments in the health and wellness field, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Feb, 12 2024

Written By

Dr. Pramod Mane

Aug, 01 2023

Written By

Dr. Pramod Mane