In the realm of fitness, the adage holds true: you become the average of the five people you spend the most time with. Seth Godin aptly points out the power of belonging to a tribe, a collective of like-minded individuals who contribute and draw inspiration from each other. As a fitness trainer at our gym, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of finding your tribe.
During the early days of the COVID-19 quarantine, uncertainty loomed over our gym’s fate. Members were dwindling, enticed by the allure of Peloton stocks and on-demand fitness programs. Home gyms were on the rise, and even our Zoom classes were thriving with 20-plus participants. However, as the months passed, a shift occurred.
While the pandemic is not entirely behind us, there’s an eagerness among people to return to their fitness sanctuaries. Small gyms, with controlled memberships, are experiencing a resurgence. Individuals are seeking the connection of being around “their” people again, whether it’s at a book club, a religious gathering, or our gym.
There’s an undeniable difference when you’re physically present. The energetic buzz, the orchestrated chaos, and the camaraderie with friends pushing you beyond your limits—they can’t be replicated through a computer screen. The smiles, hidden behind masks for months, reappear in the shared pursuit of fitness goals.
In a world seemingly falling apart, the gym becomes a refuge for the tribe that rallies for your success. Early morning workouts cease to feel arduous when surrounded by your tribe. The shared suffering and sweat forge a unique bond that transcends the virtual realm.
Tribes matter for various reasons:
- Navigating Life’s Challenges: In times of difficulty and failure, having a supportive tribe becomes invaluable. Life’s challenges are easier to navigate when you have a collective to lean on.
- Belief in Yourself: There will be moments when you doubt yourself, faced with tasks you’d rather avoid. A tribe provides the unwavering belief you need to push through those challenging times.
- Finding Your Voice: Within a tribe, there are individuals who genuinely care about your journey. It’s essential to seek out those who resonate with your aspirations and perspectives.
So, I encourage you to go out and find your fitness tribe. Rediscover the joy of shared accomplishments, the encouragement in the face of adversity, and the unique strength that emerges when a group of individuals commits to sweating and succeeding together. Embrace the special connection that only a fitness tribe can offer, and let it propel you toward your health and wellness goals.
