The Ultimate Guide to Making Friends in a New City Through Fitness & Wellness

Have you moved, or are you planning to move to a new city? On a work secondment in a foreign country? Trying out the digital nomad life for a couple of months? This article is a comprehensive guide to finding new friends in a new city or country through fitness and wellness.

TLDR: Let's start with a quick checklist for busy folks. :) The full article follows.

1. Fitness activities provide dual benefits: health and social connections
2. Key advantages: shared interests, regular schedules, endorphin-boosted interactions
3. Top activities for meeting people

• Group fitness classes
• Running/cycling clubs
• Recreational sports leagues
• Outdoor bootcamps
• Yoga/meditation groups

4. Use technology

• Fitness apps with social features
• Local meetup groups
• Social media communities
• Specialized apps like Brocnbells

5. Ice-breaking strategies

• Arrive early to chat
• Suggest post-workout meetups
• Offer to be a workout buddy
• Join fitness events

6. Expand your circle

• Join multiple communities
• Attend workshops/seminars
• Volunteer at fitness events
• Host your own meetups

Introduction

Moving to a new city can be exciting, but it often comes with a challenge: making new friends. If you're a busy professional who values fitness and a healthy lifestyle, your love for staying active could be the key to vibrant social life in your new home, whether you want to make new friends or find dating partners. Psst, we have an excellent article on the best fitness date ideas.

The challenge of making friends in a new city

As an adult in a new city, making friends can be challenging. You're adjusting to a new environment and establishing a new routine, and you may feel isolated initially. This is a common experience for many newcomers.

The dual benefits of fitness: health and social connections

Here's where fitness comes in handy. It keeps you healthy and energized, and it's a fantastic way to meet people. When you're working out, you're surrounded by folks who share at least one of your interests. That's a great starting point for friendship!

Why fitness is an ideal way for busy professionals to socialize

As a busy professional, your time is precious. That's why combining workouts with socializing is smart. You're not just exercising; you're also meeting new people. It's efficient, fun, and good for your body and social life.

A study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that it takes about 50 hours of time together to move from acquaintance to casual friend, 90 hours to become a friend, and more than 200 hours to become a close friend [1]. Fitness activities provide an excellent opportunity to accumulate these hours meaningfully.

This guide will show you how to use fitness activities to build friendships in your new city. Whether you're into high-intensity workouts, team sports, or yoga, we've got tips to help you connect with like-minded individuals. Ready to get fit and make friends? Let's dive in!

Top Fitness Activities for Meeting People

Now that we understand why fitness is great for making friends let's explore activities that are good for meeting people. These activities offer the best opportunities to interact while getting your sweat on.

1. Group fitness classes

Group classes like HIIT, Zumba, or spinning are fantastic for meeting people. You're all in it together, sweating and pushing yourselves as a team. Many classes encourage partner work or group challenges, naturally leading to interactions.

2. Running or cycling clubs

Joining a local running or cycling club is a great way to meet fellow outdoor enthusiasts. These clubs often organize regular group runs or rides, and there's usually time to chat before, during, and after the activity. Plus, the shared experience of conquering a tough route can quickly bond people.

3. Recreational sports leagues

Adult recreational leagues for sports like soccer, basketball, or volleyball are perfect for meeting new people. You'll be part of a team that naturally fosters connections. The regular games and practices provide consistent opportunities to socialize.

4. Outdoor bootcamps

Outdoor bootcamps are becoming increasingly popular in many cities. They often take place in parks and combine strength training with cardio. The outdoor setting and team-like atmosphere make it easy to converse with fellow participants.

5. Yoga and meditation groups

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, yoga and meditation groups can be excellent for meeting like-minded individuals. These activities often attract people interested in holistic wellness, and many classes encourage socializing before or after the session.

The key is to choose activities that genuinely interest you. Your enthusiasm will shine through, making it easier to connect with others who share your passion. If you're a gym rat, you should read our article on how to find new gym buddies and you can apply those strategies in your new city.

Research published in the journal Biology Letters suggests that group exercise releases more endorphins compared to solo workouts, potentially enhancing social bonding [2]. This "group effect" on endorphin release could explain why group fitness activities are particularly effective for making friends.

In the next section, we'll examine how technology can help you find these fitness opportunities and connect with potential new friends.

Leveraging Technology to Find Fitness Friends

In today's digital age, technology can be a powerful tool for connecting with like-minded fitness enthusiasts in your new city. Here are some ways you can use tech to your advantage:

1. Fitness apps with social features

Many fitness apps now include social components. Apps like Strava, Nike Run Club, or Fitbit allow you to join local groups, participate in challenges, and connect with other users in your area. These can be great starting points for finding workout buddies or joining group activities.

2. Local fitness meetup groups online

Platforms like Meetup.com often have a variety of fitness-related groups in most cities. Whether you're into hiking, yoga, or CrossFit, you will likely find a group that matches your interests. These meetups are specifically designed for people looking to connect, making them perfect for newcomers to the city.

3. Social media fitness communities

Facebook groups and Instagram communities centered around fitness in your city can be goldmines for information and connections. Join local running groups, follow fitness influencers in your area, or participate in city-specific fitness challenges. These platforms can help you stay informed about local events and connect with people who share your fitness interests.

4. Specialized fitness social networking apps

Apps like Brocnbells are explicitly designed to help you meet like-minded health and fitness enthusiasts. Brocnbells allows you to connect over your favorite gyms, healthy cafes, and activities near you. It's perfect for busy professionals looking to make new friends, find a gym buddy, or even a potential life partner. The app streamlines the process of going from a new connection to a healthy, sweaty meet-up as quickly as possible, making it easy to integrate socializing into your workout routine.

5. Virtual fitness challenges and events

Even if you can't always meet in person, virtual fitness challenges can help you connect with others. Many apps and websites offer these challenges, allowing you to compete or collaborate with others from your city or worldwide. These can be great conversation starters when you do meet people in person.

While technology is a great tool for initial connections, the goal is to use it as a bridge to real-life interactions. Once you've made some initial connections online, don't be afraid to suggest in-person meetups or joint workout sessions.

In the next section, we'll discuss strategies for breaking the ice and building connections once you've found potential fitness friends.

Strategies for Breaking the Ice and Building Connections

Now that you've found potential fitness friends, it's time to turn those initial connections into meaningful friendships. Here are some strategies to help you break the ice and build stronger connections:

1. Arriving early to chat before class

Show up a few minutes early to your fitness class or group activity. This gives you a chance to introduce yourself to others and engage in some light conversation before the workout begins. You might find that people are more relaxed and open to chatting during this time.

2. Suggesting post-workout smoothies or coffee

After a shared workout, why not suggest grabbing a healthy smoothie or coffee together? This casual setting provides an excellent opportunity to continue conversations and get to know people better outside of the fitness environment.

3. Offering to be a workout buddy

If you've hit it off with someone during a class or group activity, don't be shy about suggesting that you become workout buddies. Having a regular exercise partner can help keep you both accountable and provide more opportunities to build your friendship.

4. Participating in fitness events and challenges

Many gyms and fitness groups organize special events or challenges. These can be great ice-breakers as they often involve teamwork or friendly competition. Participating in these events can help you bond with others over shared goals and experiences.

5. Sharing your fitness journey on social media

If you're comfortable with social media, consider sharing your fitness journey online. This can be a great way to connect with others who are on similar paths. Just remember to engage with others' posts, too – it's about building a community, not just broadcasting.

6. Being open and approachable

Smile, maintain open body language, and be approachable. Sometimes, simply being friendly and open can encourage others to start a conversation with you. Be quick to encourage others and give authentic compliments. Even in the worst case you will be sure to make someones day and of coruse

7. Asking for advice or offering help

Don't be afraid to ask for tips or advice from more experienced members of your fitness community. Similarly, if you see someone struggling with a move or exercise, offer to help if you can. These small interactions can be the start of great friendships.

Building friendships takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and others. Not every interaction will lead to a lasting friendship, and that's okay. The key is to stay consistent, be genuine, and put yourself out there. In the next section, we'll explore ways to expand your fitness social circle even further.

Expanding Your Fitness Social Circle

Now that you've started making connections, it's time to think about expanding your fitness social circle even further. Here are some strategies to help you broaden your network:

1. Joining multiple fitness communities

Don't limit yourself to just one type of fitness activity or group. Try joining several different communities. This could mean attending different types of classes at your gym, joining a running club in addition to your yoga group, or participating in various sports leagues. The more diverse your fitness activities, the more opportunities you'll have to meet different people.

2. Attending fitness workshops and seminars

Look out for fitness workshops, seminars, or special events in your area. These often attract people who are passionate about fitness and health, and they provide a great opportunity to learn something new while meeting like-minded individuals. The shared learning experience can be a great conversation starter.

3. Volunteering at local fitness events

Many cities host fitness events like charity runs, triathlons, or community health fairs. Volunteering at these events is a fantastic way to meet people who share your interests in fitness and give back to the community. Plus, the shared experience of volunteering can quickly create bonds.

4. Hosting your own fitness meetups

Once you've become more comfortable in your fitness community, consider organizing your own meetups. This could be as simple as inviting a few people from your gym for a weekend hike or as involved as starting your own running group. Taking the initiative to organize events can help you become a central figure in your fitness social circle.

5. Exploring outdoor fitness opportunities

Look for outdoor fitness groups or activities in your area. This could include hiking clubs, outdoor yoga sessions, or beach volleyball groups. Outdoor activities often have a more social atmosphere and can be a great way to enjoy nature while expanding your social circle.

6. Leveraging your existing network

Don't forget about your existing network, even if it's small in your new city. Let your coworkers, neighbors, or other acquaintances know about your fitness interests. They might be interested in joining you or could introduce you to their fitness-minded friends.

Expanding your social circle is a gradual process. It's about quality connections, not just quantity. Focus on nurturing the relationships that feel most genuine and rewarding. In the next section, we'll discuss balancing your fitness goals with your social objectives.

Balancing Fitness Goals with Social Objectives

While making friends is important, it's crucial to maintain a balance between your social goals and your fitness objectives. Here's how you can ensure you're getting the most out of both.

1. Choosing activities that align with your fitness level

When selecting fitness activities for socializing, make sure they match your current fitness level and goals. This way, you'll enjoy the activity and make progress while also meeting people. If you're a beginner, don't be afraid to join beginner-friendly classes or groups – you'll find others at a similar level.

2. Setting realistic expectations for socializing

Remember that building friendships takes time. Don't expect to leave every workout with a new best friend. Instead, focus on gradually building connections over multiple interactions. Enjoy the process of getting to know people while also focusing on your workout.

3. Maintaining consistency in your fitness routine

While it's great to try new activities to meet people, make sure you're still maintaining a consistent fitness routine that aligns with your personal goals. This might mean balancing social workouts with solo sessions or ensuring that your social fitness activities are challenging enough to help you progress.

4. Being open to trying new activities

Stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to new friendships and fitness discoveries. Be open to trying activities you might not have considered before. You might find a new passion and meet people you wouldn't have encountered otherwise.

5. Communicating your goals

Don't be shy about sharing your fitness goals with your new acquaintances. This can help you find workout buddies with similar objectives and ensure that your social workouts are still productive.

6. Scheduling dedicated social time

Consider scheduling some non-workout social time with your fitness friends. This could be a post-workout meal or a weekend activity. This allows you to deepen your friendships without compromising your workout intensity.

7. Listening to your body

While it's exciting to make new friends, don't push yourself too hard just to keep up socially. Listen to your body and respect your limits. True friends will understand if you need to take it easy sometimes.

By considering these points, you can create a healthy balance between your fitness progress and your social life. The goal is to enhance both aspects of your life, not sacrifice one for the other. In the next section, we'll share some success stories to inspire you on your journey.

Overcoming Common Challenges

While making friends through fitness can be rewarding, it's not always smooth sailing. Here are some common challenges you might face and strategies to overcome them.

1. Dealing with shyness or social anxiety

Challenge: You feel nervous about approaching new people or speaking up in group settings.

Solutions:

• Start small: Begin with a simple smile or "hello" to others in your fitness class.
• Use the activity as a conversation starter: Ask about the workout or for tips on a particular exercise.
• Arrive early or stay late: This will allow you to interact in a less crowded, more relaxed setting.
• Remember that others might feel the same way: Many people are nervous about making new friends too.

2. Managing time constraints

Challenge: As a busy professional, you struggle to find time for both workouts and socializing.

Solutions:

• Combine fitness and socializing: Choose group activities that serve both purposes.
• Schedule your workouts: Treat them like important meetings you can't miss.
• Use lunch breaks: Try lunchtime fitness classes or quick workout sessions with colleagues.
• Be efficient with your social time: Quality interactions matter more than quantity.

3. Handling fitness level differences

Challenge: You feel intimidated by more experienced fitness enthusiasts or worry about holding others back.

Solutions:

• Choose beginner-friendly classes or groups when starting out.
• Everyone starts somewhere: Even fit people were once beginners.
• Focus on your own progress, not comparing yourself to others.
• Be honest about your fitness level: Many people are happy to offer support and encouragement.

4. Navigating potential romantic interests

Challenge: You're unsure how to handle romantic feelings or advances in a fitness setting.

Solutions:

• Keep interactions friendly but professional at first.
• Be clear about your intentions: Whether you're seeking friendship or open to dating.
• Use apps like Brocnbells for friendship and dating.
• If you're not interested, politely redirect the conversation to fitness topics.

Overcoming these challenges is part of the journey. Each obstacle you face and overcome will make you more confident in making friends through fitness. In our final section, we'll include some encouraging words and a call to action.

Conclusion

As we wrap up this guide, let's recap the key points and leave you with some final thoughts and encouragement.

1. Recap of the benefits of making friends through fitness

Throughout this guide, we've explored how fitness can be an excellent tool for making friends in a new city. Not only does it provide a natural setting for meeting like-minded individuals, but it also offers the dual benefit of improving your physical health while expanding your social circle. We've seen how shared interests, regular schedules, and endorphin-fueled interactions can create the perfect environment for forming meaningful connections.

2. Encouragement to take the first step

Every friendship starts with a single interaction. It might feel daunting initially, especially in a new city or dealing with shyness, but the rewards are worth the discomfort. Everyone you meet through your fitness journey could become a workout buddy, close friend, or significant other.

Don't be discouraged if you don't form instant connections. Building friendships takes time and consistency. Keep showing up, stay open to new experiences, and be patient with yourself and others. The fitness community is welcoming and supportive – you might be surprised at how many people are open to new friendships.

3. Call-to-action: Choose one fitness activity to try this week

With strategies and inspiration, it's time to take action. This week, challenge yourself to try one new fitness activity with a social component. It could be joining a group fitness class, signing up for a local sports league, or creating your account on an app like Brocnbells to find a workout buddy.

The goal isn’t just to work out, but to open yourself to new connections. Smile, introduce yourself, and be open to where these interactions might lead. Your next great friendship or even your future life partner might be one workout away.

Making friends as an adult in a new city can be challenging, but combining it with your fitness goals sets you up for success in multiple areas. So lace up those sneakers, put on your workout gear, and get ready to sweat, smile, and socialize. Your fitter, more connected future self will thank you!

Sources

1. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/0265407518761225
2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2817271/