When new to exercise or using the gym, intimidation factors like not knowing what one should be doing in a fitness setting or not knowing anyone in the gym are often enough to force a well-intentioned individual to quit a healthy lifestyle goal or not start in the first place. 

One of the best ways to feel welcomed into the community is to make connections in the gym. This can happen by befriending the staff, working out with colleagues or friends, and joining group activities within the fitness centre like classes or challenges.

It’s like the classic TV show “Cheers”, “you want to go where everybody knows your name” and the sense of inclusion and community helps to support the enjoyment and willingness to partake in physical activity in a setting that is welcoming and familiar.

This can be extremely beneficial and important for those starting a healthy journey for the first time or coming back after a long layoff of inactivity, not that that has been experienced in the last 3 years.

Inserting oneself back into the mix of group exercise can be one of the best ways to achieve success with individual fitness goals.

For one, accountability to others can be a great motivator to get to class and push oneself to work harder than last time. 

For two, the enjoyment of working out with others can make going to class something to look forward to, and an opportunity to bond and share the fitness experience with like-minded participants.

Whatever one’s reasoning for starting their fitness journey, joining groups within the fitness centre, feeling the sense of belonging to a community, and having an understanding or resource to assist in knowing the proper things to do via instructors, personal trainers, and fitness staff, will go a long way to feeling the sense of inclusiveness and support in achieving individual goals, maintaining motivation, and ensuring success.

Get out and meet new people who share common goals and interests and reach your fitness goals.