photo credit: Rodeo Riders, L.A. (LOC) via photopin (license)
I read an article citing The Physical Activity Council’s recent 2015 report which states that 1 in 4 Americans did no exercise last year. I have worked with people who, even though they hated to do it, learned how to get active and stay active. So I got to thinking about what, outside of the familiar increase in health, motivates people to get and remain physically active.
As I look back on my experience as a group fitness instructor, medical fitness facility director, outpatient chronic pain program team member and health & fitness education services owner, what I have come to know is that although populations vary greatly in health history, age, gender, socio economic background and location, one common denominator that keeps people active is a sense of belonging to a group. The bonding that takes place while sweating and huffing and puffing is palpable and the humor generated while doing what no one really wants to do somehow made it seem all worthwhile. And fun.
In studying populations with long life spans, those who feel a part of a larger group live longest. A sense of community is seen as a reason people don’t feel left out or alone. They are active together. They cook together and help each other out. And I see this with so many people who have learned to live an active life. Although they may value their alone time going on a walk or a yoga class, they also have a community of like-minded people with whom they walk, cycle or take a class with.
If you hate to exercise, you are not alone. If you want to seek out ways to meet people and move your energy, here are some ways to get you out of the house and maybe meet some new friends:
- Check out your local recreation department class offerings.
- Contact your local hospitals to learn of their program offerings.
- Houses of worship may offer a classes.
- Check out meetup.com and search for fitness and exercise groups.
If you feel intimidated to be the newbie, ask a friend to go with you just to check it out. Find your community in living your active life.