Why Group Classes Might Be a Game Changer

The Importance of Community for Health and Happiness

Strong social connections aren’t just a nice to have, as they’re vital for our well-being. An 80-year ongoing study by Harvard on the longevity and quality of life of adults found that the people who were most satisfied in their relationships at age 50 were the healthiest at age 80. This study, known as the Harvard Study of Adult Development, reveals that close relationships are a stronger predictor of long-term health than even genetics or cholesterol levels. Researchers have also noted that loneliness can be just as harmful to health as smoking or excessive drinking.

Friendships and community help us thrive emotionally and physically. According to health experts at the Mayo Clinic, having strong social support reduces stress, boosts happiness, and improves our ability to cope with hardships. It also encourages healthy habits, like regular exercise and better nutrition. Adults with good social ties tend to have lower risks of depression, better immune function, and longer life expectancy overall. The conclusion is clear: community is not just emotional… it's biological.

How Exercising with Others Boosts Motivation and Consistency

So, how does this understanding of community connect with fitness? Exercising with others creates a powerful synergy. Experts from Iowa State University point out that when people work out with friends or in group settings, they tend to enjoy the activity more and enjoyment leads to consistency. The social atmosphere can turn a workout from a solo task into something you look forward to.

Working out with others also builds accountability. If someone is expecting you to show up, whether it's a workout partner or a fitness group, you're much more likely to follow through. Support from friends helps push through tough days and stick with a routine over time. Researchers say that encouragement from others, shared goals, and even light competition can lead to greater effort and persistence during workouts.

Group Fitness Classes: Fun, Community, and Commitment

Group fitness classes bring all the best parts of social connection and structure into one experience. They create a space where people of all levels come together, moving through routines with shared energy. Group classes aren't just more enjoyable; they're more effective at keeping people coming back. Dr. Kelly McGonigal, a health psychologist at Stanford University, shared in The Washington Post that “group energy can lift your performance and mood. It’s a built-in boost to motivation.”

The set schedule of group classes builds routine and helps turn workouts into a consistent habit. When you're part of a class, you're more likely to keep showing up – especially when you know your classmates and feel welcomed. Many health and wellness organizations have found that people are more successful in meeting fitness goals when they're part of a supportive group. Whether you're sharing encouragement, laughing through a challenging move, or celebrating small wins together, the social accountability is incredibly impactful.

Total Effort Fitness: Fostering Connection Through Group Classes

At Total Effort Fitness, we believe in training with purpose – and that includes creating a community where people can grow together. Our group classes aren’t just workouts… they’re experiences that bring people closer, help build consistent habits, and turn fitness into something meaningful.

Here’s a look at the group classes we currently offer:

• Faith & Fitness – A free class that brings together spiritual encouragement and physical movement. Rooted in Scripture and driven by a sense of purpose, it’s designed to fuel both your soul and your body.

  
  

• Free Group Class – Open to everyone and for first-timers. Come as you are and experience the energy and camaraderie that makes our community special.

  
  

• Full Body Conditioning – A high-intensity workout that blends cardio and strength training. You’ll sweat, move, and challenge your full body – with the motivation of a supportive group.

  
  

• Full Body Strength – A total-body strength training class that targets every major muscle group. You’ll get stronger, and you’ll do it alongside people cheering you on.

  
  

Total Effort Fitness is here to guide our members, here to support, and our space is here to welcome you. Whether you’re starting fresh or looking to reignite your fitness journey, you don’t have to do it alone. When you join a class at Total Effort Fitness, you’re not just building strength – you’re building community.

References – Learn More:

1. Harvard Gazette – “Good genes are nice, but joy is better” (Harvard Study of Adult Development summary): https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2017/04/over-nearly-80-years-harvard-study-has-been-showing-how-to-live-a-healthy-and-happy-life/

   
   

2. Mayo Clinic – “Friendships: Enrich your life and improve your health”: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/friendships/art-20044860

   
   

3. Better Health Channel – “Exercise with a friend” (Government of Victoria):

   
   

   https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/exercise-with-a-friend 

   
   

4. Iowa State University News – “Group exercise may be even better for you than solo workouts – here’s why”:

   
   

   https://www.news.iastate.edu/news/2020/02/11/groupexercise 

   
   

5. NextAvenue (PBS) – “Strength in Numbers: How Group Fitness Can Improve Your Mental Health”:

   
   

   https://www.nextavenue.org/group-fitness-mental-health-benefits/ 

   
   

6. The Washington Post – “How exercise can make your life better — even when it’s hard” (interview with Dr. Kelly McGonigal):

   
   

   https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2022/01/08/kelly-mcgonigal-exercise-science/