Fun, Friends, and Fitness: Why Group Activities Boost Your Health
Why Group Activities?
Of course, you know time flies when you’re having fun. This Monday, bring the fun back into your fitness routine by joining a group activity that gets you moving and smiling. Think golf with friends, beach volleyball, catch in the park, or a friendly pickleball match. It’s never too late to try something new—whether you play just once or enjoy it all summer long, it’s all about having fun and moving your way.
When it comes to fitness, group activities can sometimes be even better than exercising alone. Studies compared the two and found regular group fitness classes can lead to a significant decrease in stress and an increase in physical, mental, and emotional quality of life.
So skip the solo gym session this week and try something fresh with friends. Whether you’re picking up a paddle for the first time or learning how to swing a golf club, every new skill is a chance to challenge your body, engage your mind, and connect with others. Here’s why it works:
Movement That Feels Good
Whether you’re walking 18 holes, running back and forth across a pickleball court, or joining a local rec league, group activities provide cardio, strength, and coordination—all while feeling fun and engaging rather than like intense exercise. You’ll stay active without the pressure of high-intensity training, yet still get your heart pumping, improve your hand-eye coordination, and strengthen your legs.
Leadership, Concentration, and Stress Reduction
You strategize the play, your team carries it out, and you score big! Leadership and concentration were the big players in this game. And don’t forget about your worries and stress that got left on the bench! Doesn’t it feel good to win, not just the game, but your health too?
Socializing and Improving Your Mood
A recreational setting allows you to socialize and make friends. Chatting on the court, hiking with friends, or playing pickup soccer helps build relationships and can lift your mood. It can promote better sleep, and can make you feel healthier overall. Now, that’s exciting.
Shake things up this Monday. This is your chance to try something different. Sign up for a community fitness class, organize a friendly golf day, or invite friends to play catch in the park. The activity is up to you—just get out there, move together, and remember: it’s never too late to start.
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