Why We Struggle to Stick with Exercise—and How Community Can Change Everything
You know exercise is important. It improves heart health, supports hormone balance, helps manage weight, boosts mood, and strengthens muscles and bones—especially critical during perimenopause and menopause. You may even want to work out consistently. You’ve set goals, bought the shoes, downloaded the app. And yet… it’s hard to stick with it.
If that sounds like you, you’re not alone.
Why Sticking with Exercise Feels So Hard
Most women don’t struggle with knowing they need to move more—the challenge is in making it a sustainable, daily part of life. Research from the National Academy of Sports Medicine highlights some of the most common and relatable reasons people fall off track with regular exercise:
Lack of time: Between careers, kids, caregiving, and just life in general, it’s hard to find a free hour.
Low motivation: Energy fluctuates—especially during perimenopause when hormonal changes can affect mood and drive.
Lack of support: Doing it all alone can feel isolating, discouraging, and… well, boring.
Body image concerns or intimidation: Some women feel self-conscious or unwelcome in traditional gym environments.
Inconsistent routines: Disruptions, travel, or even seasonal shifts can throw off even the best intentions.
These are not excuses. They’re real. And they affect everyone, especially women navigating the hormonal, emotional, and physical changes of midlife.
But here’s the good news: there are evidence-based ways to overcome these barriers—and one of the most powerful ones is community.
The #1 Facilitator of Exercise Adherence: Social Support
Scientific literature is clear: social support is one of the strongest predictors of consistent physical activity. Having someone to exercise with, cheer you on, or simply hold you accountable creates both external motivation and internal resilience.
A 2022 study published in Psychology of Sport and Exercise found that social connection significantly improved exercise adherence, especially in group fitness environments. Similarly, data from the American Council on Exercise (ACE) reports that when individuals feel part of a supportive, inclusive group, they’re more likely to stick with fitness routines long-term.
Why Community Works
Accountability: When you’ve made plans with a friend, it’s harder to skip out. You show up—not just for yourself, but for them too.
Motivation through momentum: When others are moving, laughing, sweating, and pushing through, you naturally want to join in.
Positive reinforcement: Encouragement, high-fives, and shared progress boosts your confidence and makes the journey more fun.
Mood elevation and stress relief: Group movement increases endorphins, reduces feelings of loneliness, and fosters belonging.
Relationship building: Working out with others creates deep, meaningful connections. It’s not just about reps—it’s about rapport.
Real-Life Examples of Social Support in Action
You don’t need to be a “group fitness person” to benefit from community. Support can look like:
Evening walks with your partner: A 30-minute stroll after dinner doesn’t just get your steps in—it gives you time to reconnect, share your day, breathe fresh air, and experience your neighborhood together.
Joining a class you enjoy: Whether it’s Zumba, CrossFit, F45, spin, or yoga—classes foster a sense of belonging. Studies show that people in group fitness environments report higher enjoyment and lower dropout rates compared to solo exercisers.
Creating a movement circle with friends: Start a weekly walking group or morning stretch meetup—even virtually. Group text accountability or fitness challenges can build consistency and fun.
Asking for help: Sometimes the first step is simply telling a friend or spouse: “I really want to stick with exercise. Will you do it with me or check in on me?”
How to Build Your Own Supportive Fitness Circle
You don’t need a massive tribe—just a few consistent people in your corner.
Here’s how to start:
Pick activities you genuinely enjoy. Don’t force yourself to run if you love to dance. Joy is the best motivator.
Schedule it like a meeting. If it’s on your calendar and you’ve committed to someone else, you’re more likely to show up.
Start small and build. Even 10-minute walks with a friend count. Small wins lead to big changes.
Celebrate together. Share milestones, post a group selfie, or reward consistency. A little celebration goes a long way.
Keep it flexible. Life happens. What matters most is finding ways to reconnect, reset, and keep going.
The Bottom Line
Exercise isn’t just about burning calories or hitting goals—it’s about connection. With your body, your mind, and the people around you. Especially for women moving through the transitions of perimenopause and menopause, feeling seen, supported, and celebrated can make all the difference.
So if you’ve struggled to stick with exercise, know this: it’s not a failure—it’s a sign you need more support. And that support might just be one walk, one class, or one friend away.
Sources:
American Council on Exercise (ACE). Understanding Exercise Adherence
Estabrooks, P.A., et al. (2022). Psychology of Sport and Exercise.
Carron, A.V., et al. (1996). “Group cohesion and adherence in exercise classes.” Journal of Sport & Exercise Psychology.