Published 06 May 2025

How To Motivate Friends To Join The Gym

Keavy Dunmore

Fun Ways to Get Your Friends Excited About Fitness

 

Working out is always fun with friends. But, convincing them to join you at the gym can sometimes feel like a challenge. Whether they’re intimidated, unsure where to start, or simply lack motivation, a little encouragement can go a long way. Here are some enjoyable and approachable ways to inspire your friends to embrace fitness and maybe even become your best workout partner.

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Make It a Social Activity

Fitness doesn’t have to be all about serious workouts. It can also be a place to bond and hang out with your bestie. You could plan visits to our clubs like you would a coffee catch-up or a night out. Chat during warm-ups, laugh at each other’s attempts at new moves, or cool down with a smoothie after. 

Joining group workout classes adds a social element while giving everyone a chance to try something new. Turning the gym into a social experience makes it feel less like work and more like a shared adventure. Find your club on our site and browse the timetable to discover a class you and your friends will enjoy.

Highlight the Non-Intimidating Side

One of the biggest barriers for beginners is the fear that they won’t “fit in” at the gym. Planet Fitness isn’t your regular gym, and is designed for all fitness levels. Our clubs offer supportive environments, beginner-friendly fitness group workouts, and even certified trainers and team members to help you and your friends to get started. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s simply taking the first step.

 

Start Small

Jumping into an intense fitness routine can be overwhelming, so encourage your friends to start small. Suggest short, light workouts they can comfortably manage, such as a quick walk on the treadmill or a 10-minute stretch session. 

You can also introduce them to partner workouts, where you work out together doing simple exercises like bodyweight squats or planks. Building confidence with small, achievable goals can make all the difference.

Use Fitness Challenges

Fitness doesn’t have to be serious to be effective. Suggest fun workouts to do with friends, such as trying a new class, experimenting with creative exercises, or even turning a gym session into a themed event (e.g., ‘80s music day). The key is to find activities your friends genuinely enjoy so it feels more like a fun outing and less like a chore.

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Share Your Goals

Your fitness journey can be a powerful motivator for others. Talk openly about why you enjoy exercising, whether it’s to boost energy, de-stress, or feel stronger. Sharing your fitness goals might inspire your friends to set their own goals. Invite them to be part of your journey – you might just end up with the perfect workout partner exercises to keep each other motivated.

Be Their Gym Buddy

Starting a fitness routine can be daunting, but having someone by your side makes it easier. Offer to be your friend’s gym buddy, guiding them through their first visits and sticking together during workouts. Whether it’s trying out partner workouts or tackling a group workout class, having your support will make you and your friends feel more comfortable and committed.

 

Getting your friends excited about fitness is all about making it fun, approachable, and social. Whether you’re introducing them to group workout classes, sharing your own fitness goals, or simply being their workout buddy, these small steps can make a big impact. So, next time you head to the gym, bring a friend along and share the joy of staying active together.

 

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Meet the Author

Keavy Dunmore