If you’ve struggled to stay consistent in the gym, science says the solution might be simple: stop training alone. A growing body of research shows that men in group-based fitness programs not only push harder, but stick with their workouts longer.
Group Workouts Boost Adherence
A review in the International Society of Sports Psychology found that people in group workout programs, like F45 Training, Orangetheory, or small-group training, show up more often and stick with it longer than those who train alone.
Another study in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research showed that men in hybrid strength-and-conditioning classes not only stayed consistent, but also improved endurance and strength at the same time.
Why Group Training Works
It’s not magic, it’s accountability. When other people expect to see you, you’re less likely to skip. Psychologists call this the “Köhler effect”: you push harder in a group because you don’t want to be the weak link. That extra push adds up over weeks and months.
Mental Health Lift
Group workouts don’t just build muscle—they ease your mind too. A study in the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association found that medical students in group classes saw a 26 percent drop in stress, plus significant boosts in mental, emotional, and physical quality of life—benefits solo workouts didn’t deliver.
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Bottom line: Men aren’t leaving solo training behind, but group workouts are changing how guys stay fit. The formula is simple: community plus structure equals consistency. If you’ve been struggling to stay on track, joining a class, or even recruiting some training partners. This built-in accountability might be the easiest way to finally stick with it.
This story was originally reported by Men’s Fitness on Aug 26, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men’s Fitness as a Preferred Source by clicking here.