When we think about exercise, we often imagine a solitary jog in the park or lifting weights alone at the gym. But history reminds us of how people thrive in communities. In ancient Greece, for example, physical training was not just an individual pursuit but part of collective life. Spartans trained together in groups, building strength not only in their bodies but also in their unity and resilience. That lesson still holds true today, sometimes the biggest strength of exercise isn’t just in the workout, but in the people you do it with. 

While exercising on your own has benefits, research shows that group exercise may give you an extra push — one that is social, psychological, and emotional. Before the pandemic, the American College of Sports Medicine predicted group fitness would be one of the top three industry trends in 2020, a sign of how much value people find in working out together. Nearly 40% of regular exercisers already take part in group fitness classes. But why does it matter so much? 

How the People Around You Shape Your Attitude 

We often underestimate how much our social circle influences us. If you see friends or peers regularly exercising, it changes the way you view physical activity; it begins to feel more normal, desirable, and achievable. Psychologists call this the power of social norms. 

When you join a group fitness class, you are not just sweating with others, you are absorbing a shared attitude. That shift in mindset can be powerful enough to turn exercise from something that feels like a chore into something you actually look forward to. As the writer James Clear once noted, “Environment is the invisible hand that shapes human behavior.” Being around people who value fitness can reshape your own beliefs about what is possible for you. 

Turning Workouts Into Enjoyable Experiences 

Even when you’ve already made the decision to exercise, your motivation matters. Experts explain that the best kind of motivation is intrinsic, that is, doing something because you truly enjoy it. But let’s be honest, not everyone finds exercise fun on its own. 

That’s where group workouts make a difference. Exercising with others adds an element of enjoyment, even when the activity itself is tough. Lifting weights or running laps may feel demanding, but with music, energy, and shared laughter in a class, the experience shifts. What was once tiring becomes fulfilling. Group workouts also feed three core psychological needs: 

• Autonomy: the freedom to choose your path.

• Competence: the sense of mastery as you improve.

• Connection: the belonging you feel with others. 

Together, these needs help people stay consistent with healthy habits, because the activity is no longer just about burning calories, it’s about community and joy. 

Friends Make Habits Stick 

Forming new habits is one of the hardest parts of fitness. But when you exercise with friends, the process becomes easier and more natural. Friends can act as both your cue and your reward. 

First, you see others exercising, and this builds your belief that you can do it too, a concept known as self-efficacy. Second, friends remove barriers. They remind you, motivate you, and sometimes even drive you to the class. Third, a little friendly competition can encourage you to push harder, helping you achieve more than you might alone. 

Most importantly, habits need repetition and reward. A workout buddy texting you, “See you at class tomorrow,” is more than a reminder, it’s a built-in system of accountability and encouragement that turns exercise into something automatic. 

Why Group Exercise Builds Long-Term Consistency 

One of the biggest challenges people face with exercise is quitting too soon. Research has found that people who feel more connected in group classes are more consistent; they show up regularly, arrive on time, and are less likely to drop out. They also experience stronger mental health benefits, from reduced stress to improved mood. 

The reason is simple: humans are social beings. When you feel supported by a group, you are more likely to stay engaged, even when life gets busy or motivation dips. That sense of belonging creates resilience, helping you maintain your exercise routine despite setbacks. 

If you’re looking for a class, it’s helpful to find a group that feels familiar; whether by age, interests, or goals. Shared identity strengthens cohesion, and cohesive groups stick together longer. 

Of course, the pandemic reshaped how many of us exercise. Social distancing made traditional classes harder, but it also opened the door to new forms of group workouts: outdoor sessions, virtual yoga, and online fitness communities. 

While remote classes may require extra effort at first—like setting up space or equipment—they also come with unique benefits. They offer flexibility in scheduling, access to diverse activities, and opportunities to connect with people far beyond your neighborhood. 

Whether in person or online, exercising with others helps keep you moving, motivated, and mentally strong.