“Exercising with others increases the likelihood of showing up to work out”
RICH BOWEN PHOTOGRAPHY/Alamy
Growing up, I avoided team sports at all costs. Eye-hand coordination just isn’t my strong suit. Plus, I have a pernicious competitive streak. Pair the two together and sport became a source of frustration rather than fun. But recent studies are making me rethink that attitude. It turns out that group exercise, especially team sports, may be better for our health than working out alone.
A 2023 analysis found that participating in sport, either recreationally or competitively, is linked with lower stress, less anxiety and better mental health, such as higher self-esteem. And these effects were especially pronounced in team sports. In fact, such sports seem to improve mental well-being more than other forms of exercise, regardless of the amount of physical activity.
