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Exercise isn’t one-size-fits-all. While some enjoy the camaraderie of group classes and shared workouts, others find more benefit in the peace of solo or virtual sweat sessions. Figuring out what works best for you is the first step in creating fitness habits you’ll want to stick with.
Individual, group and virtual workouts all offer their own set of pros and cons. So, what’s your workout style?
Going it alone
The beauty of working out by yourself is that you can do it anytime and anywhere you want at your own pace. Many solo exercisers like the meditative aspects of a long run or bike ride, finding it allows them to focus on their mind-body connection without interruption or distraction. You don’t have to feel any pressure about keeping up with everyone else or worry about looking silly if you’re trying something new. Bonus — you can listen to any kind of music or podcast you like!
Following through with your own fitness plan requires a lot of self-motivation, but if you have the get-up-and-go to work out on your own, solo exercise could be your ideal workout strategy.
Give a group a try
Most humans are social by nature, so fitness classes can be fun! You’ll get a boost from an encouraging instructor and feed off the group energy to push yourself. You might even make a new friend or two. Even if you don’t want to sign up for a class, you might enjoy just spending some time on a treadmill or elliptical in the presence of others at a gym.
There’s also power in accountability. It’s harder to skip a workout if you know a friend or partner is counting on you to show up, especially if you’ve paid for a class or gym membership. However, some may find it hard to keep up with a group or more-experienced buddy, particularly if you’re just getting started. In that case, try out a few beginner-level classes on your own first or consult a trainer who can assess your skill level and set you up with an appropriate routine.
Virtual workouts
Fitness apps and online classes exploded in popularity during the pandemic, combining the convenience of working out at home with guided instruction. Yoga, dance, Pilates, spinning, high-impact, low-impact — whatever kind of exercise you like, there’s a virtual workout you can do right in the comfort of your own living room.
It’s easy to find online workouts with a quick search, but some programs may require a paid membership for full access. And, as with solo workouts, you must make time to do them.
There’s no right or wrong way to work out. Maybe you want to fly solo one day and be around people the next. Just get moving and do what feels right for you. After all, any exercise is better than no exercise at all.
