One of the hardest things for adults to do is make new friends. It can feel awkward, especially as most of your friendship group is likely going to come out of the workplace these days.
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We’re busy, routines are packed, and it’s very easy to fall into the rhythm of work-home-repeat. But if you could make new friends while moving your body, getting healthier, and even having fun?
Whether you’re new to a city or you just want to expand your social circle, the fitness world is packed with opportunities to connect with others. From gyms and classes to community hikes, movement has a way of bringing people together and it’s usually to complain! If you’re ready to find your next workout buddy or your next weekend adventure crew, we’ve got 10 great places to meet new friends.
Head to the local gym.
This was an obvious one, wasn’t it? Gyms are a goldmine for meeting like minded people because you’re all there for the same reason: to get fit. They are packed with people who care about their health and want to self improve, and they are also packed with people who want to shop consistently.
Even if everyone is wearing headphones at first, plenty of friendships are started at the squat rack or the stretching area. You could try group fitness classes offered at your gym, too because whether you go to a spin class or a body pump, these are smaller communities within the gym that make it easier to chat with familiar faces.
Train at a group fitness studio.
Think boxing, yoga, Pilates studios or even CrossFit. These often have very tight knit and supportive communities built in because the regulars tend to shop at the same time every week.
This gives you a chance to really build that report and make new connections that will last outside of the studio area. The best part is that you are not going to be interrupting anybody else’s flow. People are likely to reach out and welcome you into the class and that will help you just strike up some conversations.
Join your local running club.
Running often seems like a solo sport but it really doesn’t have to be. Local running clubs are incredibly welcoming and they often cater to all paces and all distances. If your local club has a park run, there’s every chance you could turn up weekly and meet new people.
You don’t have to be training for a race, you could just take on some accountability. There are usually post run social events, running events and races that you can attend. You don’t have to be fast, you just have to show up and move at your own pace. Most people are more focused on community and consistency than they’re competition, so you should build quite a solid friendship group.
Sign up for a dance class.
We’re not talking about ballroom dancing, but if that’s your thing feel free to go ahead and sign up. There are a number of classes, salsa classes, hip hop classes, swing classes, and they are all packed full of energetic and joyful people who want to find a fun way to get moving.
There will be laughter, stepped-on toes, shared mistakes, music and the kind of physical expression that will really break the ice. There are many studios that offer drop-in classes for you to have a taster night, and there are also beginner nights that are specifically aimed at newbies like you. It’s almost impossible to not make a friend when you’re learning the cha-cha together.
Start hiking.
Being stuck indoors and working out doesn’t have to be your thing to make friends, but nature based movement could be your vibe. There are hiking groups, walking clubs, and outdoor meetups like adventure groups that can be an awesome place to bond with others who want the same things that you do.
There are hiking and outdoor meet up apps that you can use, but just if you meet anybody offline, be very careful. Don’t go hiking one on one with a stranger, because that sounds like the beginning of a Law and Order episode.
Join a sports team.
From darts teams to football clubs, recreational teams are one of the most fun and friendly ways to move your body and build a community. Most leagues will welcome all skill levels and so many of them are designed for fun and socialising rather than face competition.
Teams will often meet up on weekends and then go out for food or drinks after they train and you’ll see the same people each time. Not only will you improve your skills, but you’ll grow your friendship group at the same time.
Join the self defence class.
Joining a martial arts school, whether karate or Brazilian jiu jitsu, means entering a close knit and supportive environment where respect and discipline are key values. You’ll see your classmates a few times a week and you’ll be able to help each other to improve physically and mentally.
Most karate clubs also host outdoor courses or days out where you get to go to different locations and train and eat together. It’s a great way to meet new people and grow together in your training and in your personal lives.
Start rock climbing.
Not all indoor gyms are about treadmills and cross trainers. Somewhere about rock climbing and not only are they full incredible body workout, they’re also a great way to meet friendly and adventurous people who want the comfort of being indoors but still want to workout.
This vibe is completely about community and is very supportive, because climbers always love to share tips, cheer each other on and spot each other’s routes.
Sign up to a charity walk.
Signing up for a charity walk is your chance to train with others who are passionate about giving back, just like you. Many people sign up solo and are open to meeting others to walk with on the route.
You could volunteer for race day support or join the training group. It all goes towards a great cause and you get to meet new people. Win win!
Fitness events or retreats.
Yoga retreats are one of the best places to meet new people especially if you’re fully ready to immerse yourself in movement.
You should consider attending a fitness retreat or a weekend wellness workshop because these events often include yoga, group meals, mindfulness, and social downtime. It’s the ideal setting for deep conversations and meaningful connections and who knows, you may come home with a lifelong friend.
