Small Group, Big Gains: Benefits of Tribe Team Training
There’s strength (and accountability) in numbers
It’s not exactly groundbreaking news that working out in a pack is easier and more enjoyable than when you’re flying solo. We’re social animals after all, and who isn’t motivated by a little friendly competition?
Countless studies back up these benefits, too — like a study published in the Journal of Social Sciences that found that we gravitate toward the exercise behaviors of those around us.
At CA, we’re big fans of Tribe Team Training. Before we get to Tribe, however, let’s first lay out some of the incredible benefits that come from working out in a pack…
Benefits of exercising with others
Workout buddies are more than just entertainment — they’re also the key to enhancing consistency, accountability, motivation and, best of all, results. Here’s how:
They raise the bar on your workout. Let’s be real, it’s pretty tempting to skimp on your routine when there’s zero witnesses. But in a group setting, no one wants to be the weakest link. One study found that working out in a team format not only improved performance, but doubled the workout time of those who exercised alone. This is what positive peer pressure is all about!
They keep you consistent. When friends are depending on you, you’re far less likely to blow off your workout. Plus, research has found that just feeling like part of a team increases motivation to take on challenging tasks, so not only are you more likely to show up, but you’re more inclined to give it your all.
They tap into your competitive streak. Even if you consider yourself the non-competitive type, research says otherwise. In fact, a study at Kansas State University found that people who exercised with someone they thought was better than them increased their workout time and intensity by no less than 200 percent (!).
They improve your stress levels. You already know that exercise releases feel-good endorphins that boost your mood. But when you add a social aspect to the mix, research shows you maximize the stress-relieving benefits and improve your quality of life — talk about group therapy!
Tribe team training
Tribe Team Training harnesses these advantages and more to help participants take their workouts to the next level. The basis of Tribe is that together, we can achieve fitness goals that we couldn’t alone. No one gets left behind, no matter their age, ability or experience.
“It’s all about teamwork, cheering each other on and a little friendly competition in a fantastic atmosphere,” says CA personal trainer Andy Guerin, who was named the 2019 Head Coach of the Year by TRIBE Team Training North America Inc.
“The best part is that you’re not going on this fitness journey alone. You have the support of new friends, who truly do become your tribe.” -Andy Guerin
CA offers three different formats, each with a different focus and approach (and with the option to join as a virtual participant).
An exhausted but happy Tribe Fit team at Columbia Athletic Club
Membership Has Its Advantages!
Members can get access to our gyms, tennis courts, golf courses, pools, ice skating rink, pickleball courts, and much more! Use the form below to have a member advocate get in touch with you about becoming a member.
TribeFIT specializes in high-metabolic conditioning, toning up the entire body. You build strength and endurance with the classics — push-ups, squats, box jumps — while keeping things fresh with all sorts of new moves, from rhino beetles to alligator crawls.
If achieving a six-pack is your goal, TribeCORE is all about building functional core strength.
“We teach you how to engage your core in activities you might find surprising — it’s not just doing crunches,” says Guerin. “And when you dial in and strengthen your core, your overall fitness improves in so many ways.”
TribeLIFE features low-impact moves that are friendly on the joints. The program combines aerobic movements with functional strength, core and flexibility exercises.
Every Tribe coach is a certified personal trainer, which means they’re able to modify each exercise for your individual needs. All Tribe programs meet for a season — twice a week for six weeks. That means there are several chances each year to benefit from positive peer pressure, plus, you may just find some new workout buddies to train with on your off-days.
“Tribe is the sweet spot between the fun of working out as a group in a progress-based season with the personal attention and guidance you’d get with a personal trainer,” says Guerin.
Ready to find your tribe?
Tribe is open to the public; you don’t need to be a CA member to sign up. For more information, visit columbiaassociation.org/tribe.
