Exercise is not just about building muscles or burning calories, it could be a cultural experience too

Exercise tips: When people move together — whether through running, dancing, cycling or group workouts, it creates a shared energy that can be both motivating and emotionally uplifting (Image: Pexels)

• Fitness is shifting from solo workouts to social experiences
• Outdoor fitness events boost mental health and community
• Young people prefer fun, inclusive activities to stay active

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For years, fitness was seen as a solitary pursuit like an hour at the gym, headphones on, focused purely on personal goals. Today, however, the definition of fitness is expanding. For Gen Z and young millennials, working out is no longer just about burning calories or building muscle. It is becoming a cultural and social experience.

From run clubs and wellness retreats to music concerts, carnivals and fitness festivals, young people are increasingly choosing activities that blend movement with connection. Fitness today is as much about community and shared experiences as it is about physical health. The result is a refreshing shift: staying active while keeping one’s social calendar busy.

Fitness as a social experience

Across cities, there is a noticeable rise in events where fitness intersects with entertainment and lifestyle. These experiences offer something traditional workouts often lack — a sense of belonging. They allow people to meet others with similar interests while enjoying movement in a more relaxed and engaging environment. Fitness, in this context, becomes less intimidating and far more enjoyable.

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Despite being constantly connected online, younger generations often feel isolated in real life. Social fitness formats are filling that gap by bringing people together in meaningful ways. Mohua Das Gupta, Head of Marketing at Curefit Healthcare Pvt Ltd, explains, “There’s a growing exhaustion with screens, and people are actively seeking out real-life experiences where they can meet like-minded people and genuinely feel like they belong. Fitness is no longer confined to the gym or studio; it’s become a lifestyle and increasingly, a social one. Newer, more inclusive fitness formats are giving people a reason to try something new, have fun, and connect with others while doing it.”

Mental health benefits of moving outdoors

Post-pandemic lifestyles have also played a role in reshaping how young people approach fitness. Increased screen time, remote work and digital fatigue have led to rising levels of exhaustion, anxiety and social isolation. At the same time, time spent outdoors has steadily declined. According to Gupta, these two trends are closely connected.

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Movement combined with outdoor exposure has a well-documented impact on mental wellbeing. Physical activity releases endorphinsthat improve mood and reduce stress, while natural environments help calm the mind and restore focus.

Outdoor fitness events amplify these benefits further by adding the element of community. When people move together — whether through running, dancing, cycling or group workouts, it creates a shared energy that can be both motivating and emotionally uplifting.

Outdoor fitness in summer

Summer can be an ideal time for outdoor workouts, provided a few simple precautions are followed. Early mornings and late evenings are the best times for outdoor activities, when temperatures are cooler and the sun is less harsh.

Activities such as running, swimming, cycling or light training in open-air spaces can be both refreshing and energising. Hydration, however, becomes crucial during the warmer months. Drinking enough water and replenishing electrolytes ensures that the body maintains energy levels and avoids fatigue.

For young people especially, enjoyable activities like dancing, playing a sport, swimming, hiking or simply walking more through the day can be equally effective ways to stay active. The goal is to find movement that feels natural and fun rather than forced.

FAQs on Group Workouts

1. What are the benefits of group workouts?

Group workouts blend fitness with social experiences, providing a sense of community and making exercise more enjoyable and motivating.

2. How do group workouts impact mental health?

Exercising in groups releases endorphins that enhance mood and reduce stress, while social interaction helps combat loneliness and anxiety.

3. What types of group fitness activities are popular?

Popular group fitness activities include run clubs, dance classes, cycling groups, and outdoor fitness events like wellness retreats and fitness festivals.

4. How can I stay safe during outdoor group workouts in summer?

Exercise during early mornings or late evenings, stay hydrated, and choose light, breathable clothing to manage summer heat effectively.

5. Are group workouts suitable for beginners?

Yes, group workouts often cater to all fitness levels, offering an inclusive and supportive environment that encourages beginners to join and stay active.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.