Group exercise ‘improves quality of life more than working out alone’

Working out as part of a group can deliver significantly greater quality-of-life benefits than exercising alone, according to new research.

A study by the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine recruited 69 medical students – a group known for high levels of stress and a low quality of life – and asked them to take part in a 12-week exercise programme, either as a group or as individuals.

Monthly survey scores showed that those taking part in group exercise saw a 12.6 percent improvement in mental quality of life, with a 24.8 percent physical improvement and a 26 percent emotional improvement.

These participants also reported a 26.2 percent reduction in perceived stress levels. By comparison, solitary exercisers worked out twice as long and saw no significant changes in any measure, except in mental quality of life.

Dayna Yorks, lead researcher on the study, said: "The communal benefits of coming together with friends and colleagues, and doing something difficult, while encouraging one another, pays dividends beyond exercising alone."

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