For those in retirement, being around others is good for the body, mind, and soul.
There are many benefits to starting and building a fitness community. Making changes in your life to try and get healthier can be challenging, but it can be better when you have a group of others to take this journey along with you. Trying out a new gym or a new exercise class can be intimidating and trying to achieve fitness goals can be difficult. However, there are a variety of benefits to being a part of a fitness community or a community-oriented gym like you have here at Acacia Creek.
New Social Connections
Coming down to the gym or joining a gym class allows you to create relationships. You can attend the classes that have the right atmosphere that is fun and where everyone has similar fitness goals. Joining an exercise class with other people will not only help you obtain a healthier lifestyle but it will also build a sense of community.
Peer Pressure (In a Positive Way)
Studies have shown that when you exercise in a group, it can increase your time and energy spent exercising compared to those who exercise alone. Working out with others can inspire you to work out harder and encourage you to keep going when you want to quit. Having a group to work out with can motivate you to want to show up and take your fitness to another level.
Support and Belonging
When things are not going the way we planned, it is nice to be a part of a positive group that shows you’re not alone. Being a part of a supportive group of people on the same journey and facing the same challenges can help you push through on days you want to give up. Finding a sense of belonging is difficult when you become an older adult, but participating in exercise classes and coming to the gym can give you a sense of camaraderie.
Accountability
We all need someone to hold us accountable every now and then. Whether it’s pushing through those last few minutes at the gym, not giving up, or attending a class when you really just want to be lazy that day. Your fitness community is there to push you past your own limitations. It’s important to have these positive people around you to help you make healthy choices and who bring out the best in you.
Motivation
Being motivated everyday is very difficult and some days will be tougher than others. On days you just don’t feel like doing it, your teammates can be your source of motivation by encouraging you that you can do it. Having a strong group there to motivate you and cheer you on can go a long way.
Increase Your Energy
Just like a cold or a virus, energy is very contagious. Whether it’s good energy or bad energy, it still seems to rub off on us from other people. When you are part of a fitness community with a lot of high-powered positive energy, it’s almost impossible to ignore. All of that positive energy in one environment can give you a positive attitude and helps you power through your workout even on days that you want to give up.
Having More Fun
Being part of a fitness community is a lot of work, but it is also a lot of fun. Classes are filled with a lot of jokes, talking, music, and camaraderie. Seeing the same people in exercise classes or in the gym can create a bond and make coming to the gym or exercise classes a lot of fun. Many people build friendships that extend outside the gym and become lifelong friends.
It’s ok if you still prefer to work out alone; to each their own. Everyone has their own fitness personality and that’s ok. You can still work out in the gym amongst others in a fun, motivating, and welcoming community-focused environment. I encourage you to come down to the gym and join our exercise classes so you can see which one best fits your fitness goals and needs and which one has the best atmosphere. Or you can just come down and work out on your own, and you will see small groups of people coming in and out of the gym exercising on their own as well. It is still a positive gym community in a welcoming environment. Being a part of a fitness community has so many benefits to it, but the best part is you build a sense of belonging that encourages
ACACIA CREEK RETIREMENT COMMUNITY inspires residents to live an active, meaningful life. Our mission as a senior community is to enrich the independence, well-being, and security of our residents through exceptional services and care based on Masonic values.
To learn more about Acacia Creek or our senior housing opportunities, contact us at WWW.ACACIACREEK.ORG/CONTACT
