Working out in a gym class, swimming class or other group is the key to resilient health. Dr Phato Zondi, a Sports and Exercise Medicine physician, shares the connection between physical activity and well-being.
Loneliness, often overlooked but alarmingly prevalent in our modern society, poses significant health risks beyond emotional well-being. Studies highlight the detrimental impact of loneliness on physical health, linking it to increased risk of heart disease, compromised immune function and cognitive decline. But fear not, for there’s a powerful antidote – group exercise.
Dr Phato Zondi, part of Virgin Active’s panel of trusted experts, says: ‘Participating in physical activity plays an essential role in fending off the development of mental health problems or improving the quality of life of people already living with mental health problems. There are many ways in which physical activity positively influences mental health, including improving mood, relieving stress, increasing energy and mental alertness, and improving sleep.’
In this Q&A with Dr. Zondi, discover how communal workouts invigorate your body and strengthen mental and emotional resilience.
A new study equates loneliness with smoking 15 cigarettes a day. How significant is this revelation in terms of public health?
Clinical studies have long confirmed that smoking cigarettes significantly increases the risk of chronic illnesses. Similarly, recent studies show that loneliness can increase the risk of certain chronic diseases, albeit through different pathways. Social solid connection has also been shown to strengthen the immune system and improve one’s chances of longevity by up to 50%.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one in three adults in the United States aged 45 and older feels lonely.
Loneliness is a state or feeling of being disconnected from others. It reflects the difference between a person’s actual and desired level of connection. Social isolation is the lack of relationships and social connections. Numerous studies have found an association between social isolation or loneliness and innumerable illnesses.
How does regular exercise contribute to reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness?
One key reason could relate to the release of endorphins during physical activity. These natural hormones, also known as feel-good hormones, help boost self-esteem, improve mood, lower stress, and enhance well-being. Cardio, moderate physical activity, and weight training can all prompt your brain to release endorphins. Secondly, depending on your chosen exercise, physical activity will draw you out of the house and encourage you to connect with people with similar interests.
What role does structured group exercise play in alleviating loneliness?
Joining a group exercise class is one of the easiest ways to find company and social connections with like-minded people ready to work out together. Just being in the company of other committed people will boost your mood during the class, and as a bonus, there is often an opportunity to chat before and after the class. Group classes foster social connection in an easy and fun way.
Is there anything you’d recommend for individuals looking to improve their mental health through exercise?
The great news is that there is something for everyone:
- Cardio, moderate physical activity and weight training can all signal your brain to release endorphins.
- Beginner group classes offer camaraderie, companionship and gentle guidance for those new to exercise who may feel intimidated.
- Regular repetitive movements such as swimming lengths and running or walking on the treadmill can be meditative, which is another great way of banishing negative thoughts and clearing the mind.
- Finally, regular yoga creates clarity and calm, relieves chronic stress patterns, increases body awareness and centres attention, improving a person’s mental well-being.
Loneliness rates have more than doubled over the past 40 years, with a staggering 58% of adults and 79% of young adults reporting feeling lonely.
This epidemic is now considered worse than the rates of obesity and diabetes, illustrating the urgent need to address this invisible yet profound cause of a multitude of health conditions.
Recent data has shown that loneliness significantly impacts health, leading to a 32% increased risk of stroke and doubling the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s.
A groundbreaking study at Harvard University revealed that loneliness is a more significant threat to mortality than smoking, alcoholism and lack of exercise. In contrast, healthy relationships have become powerful predictors of a longer, happier life.
Recognising the critical importance of social contact in promoting health and happiness, we’re spearheading a transformation in the health and wellness industry by revolutionising the traditional gym model.
Our focus is shifting beyond physical fitness to encompass overall well-being, including mental health. The aim is to address members’ entire well-being comprehensively, promoting both physical and psychological wellness, where you’re provided with access to diverse workouts, classes, workshops and meditation sessions.
By acknowledging the significant role of relationships and community in overall health and happiness, we’re ushering in a paradigm shift in how society perceives and approaches wellness and paving the way for a future where holistic well-being is at the forefront of the fitness industry.
As loneliness rates continue to increase, integrating structured group exercise into our routines offers a powerful strategy to combat this silent epidemic. It fosters solid social connections and improves the overall quality of life. Dr. Phato Zondi’s insights illuminate the intense connection between physical activity and well-being, demonstrating that communal workouts enhance physical fitness and strengthen mental and emotional resilience.
Join us in transforming your health journey by embracing the strength in numbers with our various classes at a Virgin Active gym near you. Discover various group exercise options and community-focused wellness programs to support your holistic well-being.