Most fitness lovers know from experience or intuition that working out in a group is more motivating than going solo. The meteoric rise of competitive sports such as CrossFit also shows that yes, people actually enjoy working out with friends or co-athletes. Now, science comes to verify experience. According to new research from Kean University in New Jersey, there is even a mathematical model incorporating the influence of group exercise on community fitness trends. It shows that when working out in a group, the level of excitement increases leading to better performances from all the members of the group. Working out with others can also raise accountability, which means you are more likely to not skip classes on rainy days if you know others are involved.

The leader of the pack

The research developed by Ensela Mema, Ph.D., assistant professor at Kean University, New Jersey showcases that competitiveness is often key to getting better results from a scheduled workout. “Whereas some individuals may feel competitive, that sense of competition can be both friendly and playful or aggressive and serious. Conversely, others can compare themselves to others, which can either lower or increase confidence depending on the context” notes Healthline.  The concept here is as old as time and has a lot to do with being a member of the pack. Communal exercise triggers the primordial need of thriving as a member of the pack thus substantially raising competitiveness amongst peers; this elevated effort is what brings better, more lasting results that make an impact on both body and mind.

The communal journey

According to research from the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, other people do influence your attitudes and emotional responses to exercise. This means they can also influence how you feel when you work out and motivate you further. Exercise groups don’t necessarily include members of the same fitness levels and some may find it inhibiting. However, being on the same page in a communal journey where everyone is trying to achieve a common goal can be extremely motivating. It's true; fitness is an individual journey with very personal goals and achievements. Still, working out with others can make us feel we are all working towards a common purpose, our mental and physical improvement.

The social support net

Group sports can be demanding but are famously known for the delicate interpersonal support between the members of the team. Science has also shown that social support from a group can reinforce a sense of autonomy which is vital for personal development both physically and mentally. We perceive others work out on a higher fitness level and we feel confident and supported we can also do it if we add devotion and effort. We communicate in both verbal and nonverbal ways showing our support and admiration to the members of our group and we receive our share of support. It's also easier to create expectations that are based on reality when we see other people going through the same journey as us in real time. As members of the same training group, we get to observe their effort, dedication, and inner strength. And that can become contagious.