Working out with a group
Sabrina Scott appreciates the benefit of working out in a group. The 48-year-old lost about 40 pounds in a year by attending a fitness classes in the afternoons.
Experts agree that group exercise can be beneficial. “Working out in a group provides support, accountability, and structure,” says Lynne Vaughan, Chief Innovation Officer of the YMCA. “People don’t want to let their buddy or group down, which is terrific in terms of adherence to an exercise routine.”
“I like the camaraderie and support of a class,” says Scott. “Working out at home doesn’t work for me.” Scott’s classmates not only encourage her to come to class, they compliment her on her new figure and tell her she is an inspiration to them. “I can’t tell you how good that makes me feel, especially when I’ve been working so hard at it.”
Patient information published in the Journal of American Academy of Physician Assistants also recommends that people exercise with a partner or group because they “are more likely to stay on track.” The group encourages exercisers to involve family members, friends, and even pets, as “dogs need exercise too.”
