16 Oct Social media, increased focus on health fuel new fitness revolution

There’s a new fitness revolution going on in the U.S.!
In the 1970s, running was all the craze after the success of men such as Olympic marathon champion Frank Shorter, and other distance greats such as Steve Prefontaine and Dave Wottle.
“The Complete Book of Running” by James Fixx also helped inspire a largely male based pack to take to the streets wearing running shoes and Walkmans.
Fast forward to 2014 and new groups of runners have become passionate about this form of exercise for new reasons.
Nowadays, social media such as Facebook has helped local running/exercise groups and clubs emerge and popularize. An ever-growing number of women and men are jogging with an eye moreso on getting and staying fit, rather than flat-out competition.
Sure, the goal for many women and men is to get in as good of shape as possible and to cross the finish line in organized races, but the focus is more on having fun and sharing the experience with others via social media.
There are many community races such as 5Ks in which racers are trying to raise money for a charity, or mudslinging obstacle courses or scavenger hunts that combine fun with fitness.
Many people find running is more fun for them in groups and if they can share their ups and downs, tips and highlights it’s all the better.
Humans are usually social by nature and the lone, solitary runner we pictured in years past has joined a pack of friends or community members. When you’re part of a group, you are motivated to push them and they want to push you.
At the finish line or end of a workout, runners can share a high five and words of encouragement and maybe go out for a meal or drink afterward. Many friendships are developed from being part of local running groups or sharing running experiences on social media. Other forms of exercise, such as cross training and yoga classes also have spread their messages via social media.
The combination of exercising and socializing can be a double-dose of good stimulus for your mood. You get in good shape and enjoy camaraderie.
Of course, it’s good to cross train by mixing in strength training during the week and it’s good to get some of your runs in on a treadmill to mix things up.

At Home Fitness consultant Aaron Dorksen’s blog deals with a variety of fitness topics, ranging from workout tips, motivational ideas and feature stories on how exercise impacts people’s lives. Consult a doctor before making any significant changes in your exercise routine or diet. E-mail him with comments, questions or ideas for future blogs at aaron@athomefitness.com