3 Non-Exercise Benefits of Having a Gym Membership
Discover the surprising social perks of gym memberships beyond physical fitness. This article unveils hidden benefits, as revealed by industry insiders, that transform the gym into a hub of personal growth and connections. Dive into the unexpected ways in which a simple membership can foster networking and forge lasting bonds.
- The Unexpected Bonds in the Gym
- Networking Opportunities at the Gym
- Building Relationships with Fellow Members
The Unexpected Bonds in the Gym
The Unexpected Bonds in the Gym
One unexpected, non-exercise-related benefit I've gained from having a gym membership is the sense of community it brings.
Initially, I thought the gym would be all about lifting weights and getting through workouts, but I was surprised to discover how much I enjoyed interacting with people. Over time, I've built relationships with fellow members, trainers, and even the staff at the front desk.
It's become a place where I exchange recipes with someone from my yoga class or get a pep talk when I'm having a tough day. A memorable moment was when I celebrated my birthday at the gym-a trainer surprised me with a protein smoothie and the group joined in to sing.
The camaraderie and support reminded me that fitness isn't just about physical gains; it's also about fostering connections that uplift your mental and emotional well-being.
Networking Opportunities at the Gym
A surprising amount of networking happens at my local gym. As a recruiter, I regularly connect with potential clients and candidates there. Striking up a conversation in a yoga class or while on the treadmill becomes second nature when you see the same people every day. Since the gym isn't a formal business environment, people tend to be more relaxed and open. With endorphins flowing, they're often willing to share details about their careers and workplaces. This allows me to gain valuable industry insights while also building relationships for the future—all while getting fit.
A key part of this strategy is location. For the best results, choose a gym located in a financial or downtown district, where you're more likely to encounter peers and potential associates.
One important caveat: Don't be pushy. Let conversations develop organically and avoid being overly promotional. People wearing headphones likely prefer to be left alone.
If you do find an opening, start with light conversation. Small talk can help you gauge whether the connection is worth pursuing and if the other person is open to engaging in more meaningful discussion.
Building Relationships with Fellow Members
A non-exercise related benefit I've personally gained from having a gym membership is the relationships/network I've developed with fellow members.
I am not compensated for the accolades, but I preach about my ClassPass membership quite a bit because of the multitude of rewards I've reaped over the last year.
With ClassPass, members don't typically work out at the same facilities all the time, but we are able to frequent those places as many times as our individual schedules (and allotted credits) allow.
I can honestly say that each fitness class I've taken has connected me with new friends, awesome trainers, and other professionals who share similar lifestyles and wellness goals.
This has surprised me because I never imagined I'd be expanding my connections while trying to squeeze in exercise at the same time. I definitely prefer a ClassPass membership over working out at home!
