We get it, there’s nothing quite like blocking out the noise after a long day and locking in for a solo workout. But what if we said you might be missing out on all the benefits that group workouts can offer?
Whether it be the increased motivation and consistency to making new connections and just spending more time out and about, especially during the summertime, there are plenty of reasons to consider working group fitness into your routine.
Let’s talk about them.
What are the benefits of exercising in a group?
Mental health: movement & connection
Physical exercise alone can do a lot for our mental health, that much is pretty common knowledge now, but if you’re exclusively working out on your own you might be missing out on all the added benefits group workouts can offer.
Working out in a group means spending time with other people, which means socialising – something which can also be very beneficial for our mental health in its own right as it “foster(s) a sense of belonging, emotional support, and validation”. Whether you’re exercising with friends or joining organised group sessions with new people, it’s a great way to build and strengthen social connections – particularly if you’re an expat!
Add into the equation that research has shown spending more time outside can have positive impacts on our mental health, and you can see that outdoor group workouts can be a recipe for a happier, healthier you.
Work harder for longer
If you’re having a bit of an off day, it’s very easy to be tempted to skip a session or just not give your workout 100%, leading to slower progress and maybe even falling off the wagon completely.
If you’re training in a group, you’ve got a bit of added responsibility to the other participants – no-one likes a last minute canceller or no-show-er. If you’re flagging a bit once you’re there, having others around you to spur you on can help you push over that hump and keep driving towards your goals.
Aside from the added motivation, group fitness can also mean exposure to new forms of exercise you might not have tried on your own. HIIT, running or walking clubs, yoga and more can all be a lot more fun in a group.
Embrace your surroundings: The UAE fitness haven
Group workouts are a great way to get outside, and when you live somewhere with landscapes like the UAE has to offer, any excuse to get out there is a good one.
Stuck for ideas? There are so many locations to enjoy whilst getting a sweat on. Below are just some of our favourites to try:
- Stunning group walks around Dubai Marina Walk’s scenic waterfront
- Beautiful views of the Mangroves while group walking, jogging or using the outdoor gym at Eastern Mangroves Promenade
- Experiencing the park green spaces while jogging as a group on Reem Island
- Serene sunrise yoga on Kite Beach
Speaking of sunrise, if you are in the UAE consider planning your summer workouts around this time or at sunset to avoid some of the hotter periods of the day – you then get the added benefit of being outside during one of the most beautiful times of day, too.
Something for everyone
Another benefit of group workouts is they are often tailored to different levels of fitness - they aren’t reserved for the super-fit. You’ll find high-intensity activity groups, but you’ll also find fitness groups designed to help introduce people to regular exercise in a non-intimidating way.
Whether you want some experienced workout buddies to push you through to a PB or just a social, supportive network to help you stay consistent with regular gentle exercise, group workouts offer something for everyone.
You don’t have to be ‘in shape’ to start – showing up is enough.
How to get involved: workout groups in the UAE
So, it sounds like a good idea – right? We’re glad you agree. But how do you actually go about finding one of these groups? Let’s give you some tips.
Social media is always a good place to start – try looking in local Facebook groups or searching for exercise groups in your city, you’re bound to find a list of regular events you can put your name down for.
If you're not having much luck on social media, try asking around at your local gym or sports centre – they’re sure to know of group fitness sessions in the area, or they may even host their own.
Another good option is to look on event websites such as Eventbrite. You can input your location and search for ‘fitness and exercise’ or ‘exercise classes’ to see what’s planned around your area. If you’re searching in Dubai, you might even come across the Innermost Walk Club! We host a weekly walk club on Wednesdays (all the W’s), starting outside Ellington Properties in Dubai, and aim for around 6,000 steps each time we head out.
You can check out the next Innermost: Walk Club here – just bring some suitable walking footwear, a reusable water bottle and an appetite for socialising, we’d love to have you join us. Oh, and we even round off the walk with a drink or bite to eat at the end, if you fancy it.
Better together: group fitness
Your workout regime can cut into your socialising time, and your socialising time can cut into your workout regime – so why not do both in one fell swoop?
Hopefully we’ve inspired you to give group workouts a go. If we haven’t, go and try it anyway! Just do it once and we’re confident you’ll recognise the benefits and how it can add rather than take away from your current workout routine. Remember, even if your training for something like the Dubai Marathon or partaking in the Dubai Fitness Challenge, there is always room for both solo and group exercises as well as rest days and effective nutrition.
How to find us here in the UAE
If you’re in Dubai, join us for the next Innermost: Walk Club! We hope to see you there. We also regularly host run sessions so keep an eye out here or on @innermostglobal for any updates.
