Connecting Through Exercise
A Guide for Expats
Moving abroad isn’t just an opportunity for you to have new opportunities thrust upon you — it’s also a chance to create and find new opportunities yourself. For those who’ve just moved, you have the chance to reinvent yourself and your social circle — but a key question remains: how do you find people? If you’re looking for a chance to find a new social circle and kickstart some new habits at the same time, your answer may be lying in exercise.
The expat life is amazingly exciting and eneriching, but it comes with its own set of challenges — like finding a social circle and a sense of belonging in your new environment. Exercise, however, offers an excellent avenue for connecting with others while also boosting your mental and physical health. From joining group fitness classes to participating in virtual communities, there are countless ways to integrate fitness into your expat lifestyle and forge meaningful relationships — and we’ve got a few ideas how!
Group Workouts: The Power of Shared Goals
For expats, settling into a new culture often means navigating language barriers and unfamiliar customs. Group workout classes — like yoga, Pilates, spinning, or Zumba — can be an ideal setting to break the ice and meet locals as well as fellow expats. These sessions create a shared focus on fitness, which bridges cultural and linguistic gaps, allowing participants to bond over common goals.
Joining a group class not only helps you stay active but also encourages informal interactions before and after the session. You can exchange recommendations on the best local gyms, favorite instructors, or even nearby cafes. For expats feeling isolated, these casual conversations can grow into lasting friendships that extend beyond the fitness studio. By becoming a regular attendee, you’ll also start to feel part of a community, giving you a sense of stability in your new environment.
Team Sports: Building Trust and Collaboration
Team sports are a fantastic way for expats to immerse themselves in their new country’s culture. Whether it’s joining a local soccer league, volleyball club, or even trying out a traditional sport unique to your host country, participating in team activities offers insight into local traditions and values.
Being part of a team fosters collaboration, trust, and communication. Success depends on working together, which naturally deepens connections with teammates. As an expat, this is an invaluable opportunity to not only make friends but also to improve your understanding of the local culture. Celebrating wins, strategizing for upcoming matches, and even laughing over defeats can solidify bonds with teammates. These interactions often evolve into social gatherings outside of sports, further expanding your network and sense of belonging.
Partner Workouts: Accountability and Motivation
For many expats, finding a workout partner can be a game-changer in adapting to a new life abroad. Whether it’s a fellow expat who understands your experiences or a local willing to share their culture, exercising with a partner helps build strong, supportive relationships.
Partner workouts, such as running together, practicing yoga, or alternating sets at the gym, create a collaborative dynamic. Activities that require coordination, like passing a medicine ball or spotting during weightlifting, build trust and a shared sense of accomplishment. As an expat, having a workout buddy also adds structure to your routine, making it easier to stay consistent despite the challenges of adapting to a new country. Plus, your partner can help you navigate the local fitness scene, from discovering parks and trails to recommending fitness apps or classes popular in the area.
Outdoor Fitness Groups: Exploring Nature and Community
Outdoor fitness groups, such as running clubs, hiking meetups, or cycling tours, provide a unique opportunity for expats to explore their host country while meeting like-minded individuals. These activities often combine exercise with stunning scenery, helping you discover hidden gems and iconic landmarks in your new home.
Participating in outdoor fitness groups allows you to connect with locals who share your love for nature and activity. The relaxed atmosphere fosters natural conversations, making it easier to forge friendships. These groups often include a mix of locals and other expats, creating a supportive environment where you can exchange tips on living abroad, share travel stories, and even practice the local language in a casual setting.
In addition, many outdoor fitness events, such as charity runs or community clean-ups, focus on giving back. These events not only provide a sense of purpose but also help expats feel more integrated into their new community.
Virtual Fitness Communities: Bridging Distance with Technology
For expats in remote areas or those adjusting to their new surroundings, virtual fitness communities offer an excellent way to connect with others. Platforms like Strava, Peloton, and online yoga classes allow participants to engage with fitness enthusiasts worldwide. These communities provide a sense of belonging, even for those who prefer solo workouts or have limited access to in-person fitness groups.
Through virtual communities, expats can share their progress, exchange tips, and celebrate milestones. These platforms often include features like group challenges or live leaderboards, which foster a sense of friendly competition and mutual encouragement. Virtual connections can also serve as a stepping stone to in-person meetups—many online fitness communities organize real-world events or retreats where members can finally meet face-to-face.
Practical Tips for Expats: Making the Most of Fitness Connections
Do Your Research: Look for local gyms, clubs, or community centers that offer classes or activities in your language or provide multilingual options.
Leverage Social Media: Join expat or fitness-related groups on platforms like Facebook or Meetup to discover events or clubs near you.
Be Consistent: Attend classes or meetups regularly to build familiarity with other participants.
Be Open-Minded: Don’t be afraid to try new activities or sports that are popular in your host country.
Use Technology: Download apps or join virtual fitness communities that align with your interests and schedule.
As an expat, finding ways to connect with others is essential for building a fulfilling life abroad. Exercise offers a powerful medium to foster these connections, bridging cultural gaps and providing a sense of community. Whether you’re joining group classes, playing team sports, or engaging in virtual fitness communities, these activities can help you feel more at home in a foreign country.
By embracing the social elements of fitness, you’re not just improving your physical health but also enriching your life with meaningful relationships and unforgettable experiences. So, lace up your sneakers, grab your yoga mat, or dust off your tennis racket—the connections you make through exercise could become the cornerstone of your expat journey.