Building Community within a gym is good for members and for business. Strong communities within gyms encourage member retention by keeping the atmosphere friendly, supportive, and energized.

As this PushPress article puts it:

Most people don’t go to the gym just for a workout. They go for motivation, accountability, inspiration and social connection. There is pride in being part of a healthy, strong, happy community. Members feel valued and accomplished when they are working out side-by-side, learning new movements, celebrating victories and overcoming challenges together.

Crossfit’s meteoric rise in the fitness industry was built on a community platform. Barb and I attended Wodamania in Riviera Beach, Florida in December. The energy and support for the athletes was unreal!

Our friend, the late Val Gundrum, focused her business model of Aerobics Central/Four Seasons Fitness Studio a decade ago on community. She was way ahead of her time in understanding that social interaction is important in the gym.

Community is important!

Now more than ever!

Society is heading in the wrong direction regarding social connection. There is more cellphone and social media use, particularly among younger generations, and less volunteering and face-to-face interaction. This is linked to the increase in loneliness and depression.

Data shows that exercise can help treat depression. Adding positive social interactions within the exercise environment is only going to help more.

The mechanisms underlying the antidepressant effects of exercise remain in debate; however, the efficacy of exercise in decreasing symptoms of depression has been well established. Data regarding the positive mood effects of exercise involvement, independent of fitness gains, suggest that the focus should be on frequency of exercise rather than duration or intensity until the behavior has been well established. 

We need to look for opportunities to connect face-to-face with others as well as virtually.

The gym is the perfect place!

Building on to Our Community Gym

In 2024, we will be entering “Fays II” of our Building Project, which will add another 500 sq. ft of floor space to the gym.

This additional space will allow for more people and more classes.

Join us in building our local Fitness Community!