It seems like almost everyone is getting involved in group exercise today. On any given day in a warehouse, in a park or at the gym you can find people exercising together.

There’s everything from Running Clubs to Boot Camp classes outside. So why exactly are so many people jumping the ‘lone wolf’ ship to work out with others in a group setting? What is the big attraction?

I’ve been involved in fitness for 15 years now and have belonged to gyms for a number of years in the past, but I’ve also been that solitary figure in the gym and on the road. I do feel this has given me a pretty good understanding of the appeal and the dynamics of both. Years ago I lived out in Australia and took part in outdoor training in Sydney, I loved it, fresh air, greenery, team work, competitiveness, Sun, Sea, Sand and a bloody good workout all round.

This was what actually give me the idea to set up my outdoor Bootcamps on my return. However I didn’t really take the winter months into account. But after 9 years we are so used to the different seasons we go through.

So whether you join a workout group or get your own group of friends together for a workout, here are three reasons why working out in a group is more appealing.

Motivation

Unless you’re that rare person that can jump out of bed at 5 a.m. and hit the ground running, odds are that getting and staying motivated are difficult for you. You are not alone. The majority of the people I’ve worked with over the years have had the same problem. That’s one of the great things about the group setting. Many people who attend a class will show up exhausted from the ups and downs of everyday life. But once they join the group, they become re-energized. With a friendly fitness instructor there to light a fire under your rear, it can’t get any better.

Not only are you more motivated to get out of bed and exercise, but there’s the motivation to improve your current fitness level. If you work out with people who are faster, stronger or fitter than you, you are probably going to get in better shape. There’s an old saying that goes, “The lead dog sets the pace for the rest of the pack.” Think about it.

Accountability

Remember when you were at school and your mum would wake you up in the morning to go to school? She was holding you accountable. If you were anything like me, you probably wouldn’t have went without her wake-up calls. Thanks Mum!

Just remember the guys at bootcamp once you all get to know each other, you will always be asked where you are if you don’t attend and maybe get a hard time for it at your next session.

Group Camaraderie

Human beings are social creatures. Yes, a few are hermits and recluses, but the majority of us love to be around other people. We love to laugh, joke and have fun. I feel this is one of the greatest products of a group workout setting. Nothing brings people closer quite like misery and physical suffering. If you’ve ever done a boot camp or similar class, you’ll understand what I’m talking about.

Many people sign up to get more fit and along the way become friends through this mutual ritual. Many become lifelong best friends. My classes not only work hard together, but they play hard together. We regularly have social events, Team events where we do races and events together. We sincerely enjoy one another’s company. It’s truly one of the best ways to meet people like you and develop a common bond while getting into the best shape possible.

Joining a workout group can keep you motivated, hold you accountable and help you develop a sense of group camaraderie.

Finally, in a world where we’ve become so dependent on email and texting, working out with a group offers that human interaction that is slowly disappearing. We can do just about everything today virtually without ever talking to a person. With group fitness, you have to get involved. You can try to escape to the back of the pack, but a good instructor will integrate you into the group whether you like or not. That’s why it’s called group dynamics, and that’s why technology will never replace the good ‘old fashioned group workout. Get out of your cubicle, your car or your house and go meet other people that have a common interest just like you. You never know, you might just meet some real good friends while enjoying your exercise.