Feeling Lonely Matters More To Your Fitness (And Overall Health) Than You Think

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There is a substantial difference between being alone and feeling lonely. A little solitude, especially when it’s intentional, can lead us to some of our most productive, mindful and powerful moments. Loneliness, on the other hand, can leave us feeling self-conscious, withdrawn and completely unmotivated.

And that distinction matters a great deal when it comes to your health.

Scientists have known for some time now that loneliness in older adults decreases longevity in a multitude of ways, from an increased risk of heart disease to the development of severe depression. But what many people don’t realize is that adolescents and young adults experience a similar peak in loneliness, and those two groups of people tend to need the support of a community most.

As the images of health and fitness become increasingly prevalent and refined for millennials via social media (and otherwise), it can feel like a losing battle for those just getting started in taking care of themselves. They get the impression that everyone else knows something — or a lot of things — that they don’t, which just leaves them feeling more deflated, downtrodden and isolated than when they started.

Even Greatist’s CEO Derek Flanzraich says his website’s readers struggle the most not with inspiration or information, but with feeling like they have a community backing them along their fitness journey rather than just having to fend for themselves.

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It’s no wonder that group fitness classes have boomed over the past few years. From memberships like ClassPass to expansive offerings at national gym chains, the fitness industry took note of a major need of their targeted audience: a sense of camaraderie in reaching toward a common goal. They work for people who want to get fit but are self-conscious about their lack of experience. They work for people who really don’t want to exercise but know they need to for their health and just need a little willpower boost to get it done. And they work for people who want to up their fitness games and need a little competitive challenge. The power of a support system is undeniable and incredibly dynamic depending on the needs of the individual.

A recent study that compared the effectiveness of exercising in groups to working out solo found that, after 12 weeks, participants’ perception of their quality of life — mentally, physically and emotionally — all improved when they participated in group fitness rather than setting out on their own. When they worked out alone, they only felt like their mental quality of life improved.

And even for the people out there who thrive running long distances or biking mile after mile solo, they aren’t entirely alone. The ones who truly feel successful have a network of support backing them up, whether it’s a coach, a group of friends or their family members. Hell, even look at professional athletes.

There really is power in numbers. So if you’re someone who feels lonely and isolated in your particular health challenge, try joining a group — even if it feels uncomfortable at first. You’ll be surprised how much a sense of community will propel you toward accomplishing your goals.