Guest columnist Linda McVey is executive director of health initiatives for the YMCA of Greater Cleveland.

As someone deeply committed to enhancing the well-being of our community, I’ve come to understand the profound impact of social connections on personal wellness.

In our pursuit of healthier lifestyles, the choice between exercising alone or with others can significantly influence not just our physical fitness, but our overall well-being.

At the YMCA of Greater Cleveland, where we offer a variety of group exercise classes across our 11 branches, we see firsthand how shared fitness activities can transform lives.

These classes are more than just opportunities to break a sweat; they are vibrant communities where individuals of all ages and backgrounds come together with a shared goal of improving their health.

What makes working out in a group setting so powerful? It goes beyond the physical benefits, though those are certainly substantial.

Group exercise classes provide a supportive environment where participants motivate each other to push their limits, celebrate successes and navigate challenges together. Whether it’s the energy of a high-intensity cardio class or the mindfulness of yoga, the camaraderie fosters a sense of belonging that is essential for sustained motivation.

Research underscores the psychological benefits of exercising with others. Studies have shown that group workouts can enhance mood, reduce stress levels and increase overall satisfaction with one’s fitness routine.

The social interaction inherent in group settings not only makes workouts more enjoyable, but also creates accountability, making it less likely for individuals to skip sessions or lose interest over time.

Group exercise also serves as a powerful antidote to social isolation by fostering connections among participants. Engaging in physical activities together creates a sense of belonging, encourages camaraderie and builds supportive relationships.

As individuals share their fitness journeys, they form bonds that extend beyond the gym, reducing feelings of loneliness and enhancing emotional well-being.

The collective experience of working toward common goals reinforces community ties and nurtures a vibrant, supportive environment.

Moreover, group exercise promotes diversity in fitness experiences. In a class setting, participants can explore different workout styles under the guidance of skilled instructors, discovering new activities they may not have considered on their own.

This variety not only keeps workouts interesting, but also ensures a well-rounded approach to fitness that addresses different aspects of physical health.

For many, especially those new to fitness or recovering from health challenges, the supportive atmosphere of group classes can be particularly transformative.

It’s not uncommon to hear stories of individuals who found strength and resilience within these communities, overcoming personal obstacles with the encouragement of their fellow classmates.

Many participants report feeling empowered and inspired by the collective energy of the group, which often drives them to achieve goals they once deemed unattainable.

While solo workouts certainly have their place, particularly for those who cherish moments of introspection or prefer the flexibility of individual routines, the social dimension of group exercise cannot be overstated.

It fosters a sense of community that extends beyond the gym walls, creating lasting friendships and networks of support that enhance overall quality of life.

As we pursue our personal wellness goals, whether at the YMCA or elsewhere, let us remember the profound impact of connection. By choosing to work out together, we not only invest in our physical health, but also nurture the social bonds that enrich our lives.

So, whether it’s joining a group fitness class, forming a workout group with friends or participating in community fitness events, let’s embrace the power of togetherness in our pursuit of a healthy vibrant future.

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SALT LAKE CITY – A lot of people tend to forget that maintaining good post-workout habits is just as important as the actual workout itself. It might feel easier to just call it a day after finishing an intense workout, but what you do after that will really help make a difference.

In the latest Let’s Get Moving with Maria podcast episode, Maria Shilaos spoke with Personal Trainer and Health Coach Michele Riechman to learn some healthy post-workout habits we shouldn’t skip out on.

Riechman says that when we are working out, it’s important to do it holistically. It’s common to see people skip out on stretching unless they’re doing something that requires flexibility, such as gymnastics or ballet. However, that should not become a habit.

“We want to make sure that when we are exercising, at the end we’re taking that time to stretch. When our muscles are pliable, it also helps our muscles to recover better,” she said.

Hydration is another thing to keep in mind. In general, we should drink at least half of our body weight in ounces. If we sweat, we will need more than that.

“The real way to tell is to look at the color of your urine. You want your urine to be a pale yellow… We want to make sure that we’re drinking enough where our urine stays a pale yellow color the rest of the day,” Riechman said.

Riechman also says we should eat enough protein. If we didn’t eat enough right before the workout, then a post-workout protein drink will help those muscles recover better.

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There are busy days when making it to the gym is just not in the cards with everything else on your to-do list. But just because your schedule is jam-packed doesn’t mean you can’t squeeze in a quick, effective workout from the comfort of your own home.

How quick are we talking? Just 15 minutes of exercise per day can have a positive impact on your health — from better cognitive function to improved metabolic and cardiovascular health to a longer lifespan.

Since consistency is key when it comes to reaping the benefits of exercise, shorter workouts are a great tool to have in your arsenal. They are easier to commit to than those hour-long sessions that require you to leave home and head to the gym. And whether you’re in the mood for strength training or dance cardio, we’ve rounded up 13 free workouts you can do in just 15 minutes, with little to no equipment needed.

1. 15-Minute Aerobic Workout for Beginners

If it’s been a minute since you’ve worked out, this 15-minute aerobic workout will remind you how much fun it can be. Burn calories and get your heart rate up with easy-to-follow moves that even the most novice of fitness levels can master.