EMBARKING ON A JANUARY FITNESS KICK? ACCORDING TO A NEW STUDY, PEOPLE WHO EXERCISE IN A GROUP ARE LIKELY TO BE HAPPIER, MORE FULFILLED AND SIGNIFICANTLY MORE POSITIVE THAN THOSE WHO EXERCISE ALONE

A recent study by PadelStars, a leading UK padel tennis operator, has revealed that exercising with others or in a group, will make you happier, (45 of respondents said they were “happy”, compared to 30 percent of lone exercisers.) Almost a quarter (23 percent) of social exercisers say they feel “pumped and elated” (16 percent) post workout, compared to just 15 percent of solo fitness fans. Only four percent of people who work out in a group said exercise feels like a chore, compared to 16 percent of people who work up a sweat on their own, according to the poll by PadelStars.

Padel Tennis Popularity

Padel tennis, an emerging sport that is rapidly gaining popularity with high-profile celebrities and players of all ages and abilities, ranks impressively high in fostering social connections and mental health benefits, outranking established sports like golf, cycling, and rugby. It also emerged as one of the top three happiest team sports alongside five-a-side football and netball. Its blend of competition, teamwork, and sociability makes it a standout choice for those looking to stay active while building strong social bonds.

The data also revealed that exercising with friends will make you more positive (54 percent, compared to 30 percent), more fulfilled (27 percent, compared to 9 percent) and more content (41 percent, compared to 35 percent) than exercising alone. In terms of what Brits love about working out with others – the company came top (47 percent), followed by the support and encouragement (33 percent), and the humour (21 percent), while 27 percent said exercising in a group takes them away from social media.

Social Exercise Benefits

14 percent love the competitive nature of breaking a sweat in a group, while a cheeky 16 percent simply look forward to the post-exercise drinks in the pub. Competition (14 percent), deep chats (13 percent) and even a bit of flirtation emerged as other benefits of working out with others. Overall 15 percent of the adults polled said they had met their best friend from the fitness community, while 14 percent have made an invaluable group of buddies – and more than one in 20 (6 percent) even met their partner.

A resounding 49 percent of Brits who exercise together insist it can foster a tight bond like no other, with 27 percent saying their sports club or health hub is one of the most important places in their life. Andy Knee, CEO of PadelStars comments, “We all know that working out is beneficial to our wellbeing, however this research suggests that the social element of exercising has huge benefits, in terms of the quality of your work out, but also more generally in terms of people’s happiness and positivity.

Teamwork & Fun Combined

Padel, in particular, stands out as a sport that combines competition, teamwork, sociability and a huge dose of fun. Millions of people are now discovering the unique qualities of padel that combine to make it so happily addictive .” Whether it’s a five-a-side football match or a game of padel with friends or colleagues, the camaraderie, humour and competition of working out in a group is more beneficial than working out alone.

And with committed padel advocates such as David Beckham, Serena Williams, Tom Holland, Lando Norris and Lionel Messi, we feel that padel is on an irresistible journey to become The Happiest Sport”. More than half (53 percent) said belonging to a sports club or health community has had a hugely positive effect on their physical and mental health.

About PadelStars

PadelStars is a pioneering padel tennis operator dedicated to bringing the world’s fastest-growing sport to communities across the UK. With a focus on premium courts, exceptional facilities, and fostering a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere, PadelStars is committed to making padel accessible to everyone – whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced player. Offering a range of activities, including lessons, social mix-ins, and competitive matches, PadelStars ensures there’s something for all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

As CEO Andy Knee puts it, “PadelStars is more than just a club; it’s a community built around the fun and inclusivity of padel—the world’s happiest sport.” PadelStars is proud to partner with local organisations to develop state-of-the-art facilities, with padel tennis clubs now open in Bracknell, Southampton, Reading, St Albans and Folkestone, and soon to arrive in Basildon, Bournemouth, Egham, Basingstoke, Cambridge, Cockfosters and Chigwell. By putting community, sociability, inclusivity and fun at the heart of its clubs, PadelStars is championing the growth of padel in the UK.