The Impact of Individual Exercise Versus Large and Small Group Exercise in Community-Dwelling Adults

Exercise offers multiple health benefits, and improving adherence may positively influence community health. Thus, improving exercise adherence is likely to have a positive impact on community health. The YMCA, a longstanding community resource, provides exercise opportunities ranging from individual workouts to large-group classes. Group cohesion may enhance adherence; however, the effect of group size on cohesion is not well understood.

This study at the Greater Green Bay YMCA examined the impact of individual, small-group (< 12 participants), and large-group (≥ 12 participants) exercise on adherence, frequency, satisfaction, confidence in safe exercise, and self-perceived health. An online survey distributed via the YMCA newsletter collected data on exercise preferences, membership duration, and related factors.

Fifty-six members completed the survey: 14 exercised exclusively in large groups, four in small groups, 20 individually, and 18 used multiple methods. Large-group participants reported the highest satisfaction (8.8/10) and exercised most frequently, with 64% attending three or more times per week. Large-group and individual exercisers reported the highest confidence in safety (8.3/10). Combination exercisers had the highest self-perceived health (7.9/10). Among long-term members, 73% participated in some form of group exercise.

Exercising in groups of at least 12 participants was associated with greater satisfaction and more frequent exercise compared with smaller groups or exercising alone. Participation in any group exercise was linked to higher self-perceived health. These findings suggest that group cohesion may influence adherence and health perceptions, providing a foundation for future research and program development.