{"id":14896,"date":"2025-08-15T01:19:48","date_gmt":"2025-08-14T18:19:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/?p=14896"},"modified":"2025-08-15T01:19:48","modified_gmt":"2025-08-14T18:19:48","slug":"social-connection-and-mental-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/?p=14896","title":{"rendered":"Social Connection and Mental Health"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <script async src=\"https:\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-3711241968723425\"\r\n     crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div itemprop=\"articleBody\">\n<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 100.021%; border-width: 1px; background-color: #DADFE1;\" border=\"1\">\n<colgroup>\n<col style=\"width: 99.8938%;\"\/><\/colgroup>\n<p>&#13;<\/p>\n<tbody>&#13;<\/p>\n<tr>&#13;<\/p>\n<td style=\"border-width: 1px;\">&#13;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"font-size: 13pt;\"><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&#13;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 13pt;\">This blog explores how to use fitness as a third space, build social connection through exercise, and strengthen the link between exercise and mental health:<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&#13;<\/p>\n<ul>&#13;<\/p>\n<li style=\"font-size: 13pt;\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW28422708 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 13pt;\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW28422708 BCX8\">A third space is somewhere outside of <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW28422708 BCX8\">home and work<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW28422708 BCX8\"> where you can <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW28422708 BCX8\">spend some of your leisure time <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW28422708 BCX8\">and socialize with people who share your interests.<\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<p>&#13;<\/p>\n<li style=\"font-size: 13pt;\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW28422708 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 13pt;\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW28422708 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW197735541 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW197735541 BCX8\">This type of connection can support your mental health and overall well-being by reducing stress levels and <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW197735541 BCX8\">creating a sense of belonging<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW197735541 BCX8\">.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<p>&#13;<\/p>\n<li style=\"font-size: 13pt;\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW28422708 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 13pt;\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW28422708 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW197735541 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW197735541 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW83808209 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW83808209 BCX8\">Any space or event that builds social connection as people move together with a purpose is an example of \u201cfitness as a third space.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<p>&#13;<\/p>\n<li style=\"font-size: 13pt;\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW28422708 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 13pt;\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW28422708 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW197735541 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW197735541 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW83808209 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW83808209 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW69199128 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW69199128 BCX8\">Examples include fitness facilit<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW69199128 BCX8\">ies<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW69199128 BCX8\">, community recreation leagues, running clubs and fitness classes taught in public spaces.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/li>\n<p>&#13;\n<\/ul>\n<p>&#13;<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW28422708 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" style=\"font-size: 13pt;\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW28422708 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW197735541 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW197735541 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW83808209 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW83808209 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW69199128 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW69199128 BCX8\">See below for some helpful links to help you find your own third space.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&#13;\n<\/td>\n<p>&#13;<br \/>\n<\/tr>\n<p>&#13;<br \/>\n<\/tbody>\n<p>&#13;<br \/>\n<\/table>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The concept of \u201cthird spaces\u201d\u2014environments outside of home and work where people find connection and a sense of belonging\u2014has been gaining a lot of traction in recent years. Perhaps the pandemic, when those two primary spaces merged into one, led us to collectively recognize the value of having another location where we gather with friends or like-minded neighbors and simply enjoy ourselves. Adding physical fitness to the mix only elevates the value of your third space.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><strong><span class=\"TextRun SCXW209531935 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209531935 BCX8\">What Is a Third Space?<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW209531935 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW209531935 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">A third space is <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">a physical location<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\"> outside of work and home where you can <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">spend some of your leisure time <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">and socialize with <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">people<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\"> who share <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">your <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">interests<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">and <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">that facilitates a sense of <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW104457178 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC6934089\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW104457178 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">community, <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">social interaction and support<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">Importantly, there is no obligation to be <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">there<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\"> and <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">cost should not be a barrier. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">It is literally a third space where you regularly spend time <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">in order <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">to<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">break up the work\u2013home cycle that is so easy to fall into<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">. Classic examples include <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">coffee shop meetups with friends, book club meetings<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">, happy hour festivities<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\"> and faith-based gatherings. <\/span><\/span><strong><span class=\"TextRun Highlight SCXW104457178 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">The <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\">ultimate goal<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW104457178 BCX8\"> of the third space, whatever form it takes, is connection with others.<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\">W<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\">hy is that connection so valuable? Interacting with people outside your day-to-day circle of coworkers and family members <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\">allows you to either reinforce relationships with existing friends or meet new people who share your interests and with whom you can socialize in a more organic and meaningful way than you might with coworkers.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun Highlight SCXW10541993 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\">This type of connection can support your <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW10541993 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/abs\/pii\/S0264275122004887\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Highlight Underlined SCXW10541993 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">mental health<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun Highlight SCXW10541993 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\"> and <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW10541993 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hhs.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Highlight Underlined SCXW10541993 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">overall well-being<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun Highlight SCXW10541993 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\"> by\u00a0 <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\">improving stress responses, minimizing <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\">the negative effects of stress <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\">and <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\">creating a sense of belonging<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/strong><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun Highlight SCXW10541993 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW121888250 BCX8\">Third spaces also can encourage you to expand your horizons and try new things<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW121888250 BCX8\"> by making them less intimidating and <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW121888250 BCX8\">a lot<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW121888250 BCX8\"> more fun.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun Highlight SCXW10541993 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW121888250 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW6482394 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW6482394 BCX8\">Where Does Fitness Enter the Conversation?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW6482394 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{\">\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun Highlight SCXW10541993 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW121888250 BCX8\"><span class=\"EOP SCXW6482394 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140489864 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140489864 BCX8\">Any space or event that builds social connection as people move together with a purpose is an example of \u201cfitness as a third space.\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun Highlight SCXW10541993 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW121888250 BCX8\"><span class=\"EOP SCXW6482394 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140489864 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140489864 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\">Imagine you move to a new part of the country and want to explore the hiking trails in your area. You can either head out on your own and reap the physical health benefits of exercising and getting outside, or you can join a local hiking <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\">group <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\">and expand on those physical benefits by incorporating <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\">camaraderie and conversation, thereby <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\">benefiting <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\">your <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW199456534 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.acefitness.org\/resources\/pros\/expert-articles\/5982\/the-benefits-of-exercise-on-mental-health\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW199456534 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">mental health<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\"> as you climb those dreaded switchback trails.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun Highlight SCXW10541993 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW121888250 BCX8\"><span class=\"EOP SCXW6482394 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140489864 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140489864 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">Fitness facilities serve that same purpose for many <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">people<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">. Group fitness classes are the perfect example of how fitness<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\"> centers<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\"> can serve as a third space, as they typically provide a sense of \u201cwe\u2019re all in this together\u201d as participants pursue shared fitness goals<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">. In addition,<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\"> a <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">skilled fitness <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">instructor <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">may <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">foster meaningful connections within the group<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">, bolstering a sense of <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW259068041 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hhs.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW259068041 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">belonging<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">, purpose and meaning<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">.<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\"> Small-group personal-training sessions can <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">create that same environment, <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">as can <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">simply going to the gym with some friends and socializing as you <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">walk on neighboring treadmills, <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">spot one another <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">when using free weights <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">or take turns using <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">resistanc<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">e<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">-training<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\"> machines<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\">.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun Highlight SCXW10541993 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW121888250 BCX8\"><span class=\"EOP SCXW6482394 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140489864 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140489864 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW172812943 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW172812943 BCX8\">Other physical<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW172812943 BCX8\">activity<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW172812943 BCX8\">\u2013<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW172812943 BCX8\">based third spaces include c<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW172812943 BCX8\">ommunity recreation league<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW172812943 BCX8\">s, <\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW172812943 BCX8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.acefitness.org\/resources\/pros\/expert-articles\/8869\/the-power-of-running-clubs-community-connection-and-consistency\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW172812943 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW172812943 BCX8\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">running clubs<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW172812943 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW172812943 BCX8\"> and fitness classes taught in public spaces\u2014think boot camp in the park or yoga on the beach.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun Highlight SCXW10541993 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW121888250 BCX8\"><span class=\"EOP SCXW6482394 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140489864 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140489864 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW172812943 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW172812943 BCX8\">Final Thoughts<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140622067 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun Highlight SCXW10541993 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW10541993 BCX8\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW121888250 BCX8\"><span class=\"EOP SCXW6482394 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW140489864 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW140489864 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW199456534 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW259068041 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW172812943 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW172812943 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun Highlight SCXW26516081 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26516081 BCX8\">A<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26516081 BCX8\">s<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26516081 BCX8\"> more and more of our lives<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26516081 BCX8\">\u2014from work to socializing\u2014<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26516081 BCX8\">move online<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26516081 BCX8\">, <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26516081 BCX8\">people have begun to crave <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26516081 BCX8\">the<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26516081 BCX8\">true connection<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26516081 BCX8\">and sense of belonging <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26516081 BCX8\">that is best achieved through face-to-face interaction. Couple that with <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW26516081 BCX8\">a growing focus on health and wellness and you\u2019ve created the perfect opportunity for fitness to become the third space in people\u2019s lives.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\">Get started by seeking out like-minded <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\">people in your community <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\">and <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\">gathering<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\"> to pursue shared goals. Nothing brings people together like <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\">conquering something <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\">as a group, whether that\u2019s a steep hiking trail<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\">, <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\">tough weightlifting session or even a leisurely walk in the par<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\">k<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\">. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\">The key is that you feel a sense of belonging and empowerment as you <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\">move together<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\"> and simply enjoy one another\u2019s company<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100843348 BCX8\">.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 99.985%; border-width: 1px; background-color: #DADFE1;\" border=\"1\">\n<colgroup>\n<col style=\"width: 99.8919%;\"\/><\/colgroup>\n<p>&#13;<\/p>\n<tbody>&#13;<\/p>\n<tr>&#13;<\/p>\n<td style=\"border-width: 1px;\"><span style=\"font-size: 11pt;\"><em><span class=\"TextRun SCXW143998046 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW143998046 BCX8\">*These links are being provided as a convenience and for informational purposes only; they do not constitute an endorsement or an approval by ACE of any of the products, services or opinions of the corporation or organization or individual. ACE bears no responsibility for the accuracy, legality or content of the external site or for that of subsequent links. Contact the external site for answers to questions regarding its content.<\/span><\/span><\/em><\/span><\/td>\n<p>&#13;<br \/>\n<\/tr>\n<p>&#13;<br \/>\n<\/tbody>\n<p>&#13;<br \/>\n<\/table>\n<p>\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-3711241968723425\"\r\n     crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.acefitness.org\/resources\/pros\/expert-articles\/8957\/fitness-as-a-third-space\/?DCMP=RSSace-insights-blog\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>&#13; &#13; &#13; &#13; Key Takeaways &#13; This blog explores how to use fitness as a third space, build social connection through exercise, and strengthen the link between exercise and mental health: &#13; &#13; A third space is somewhere outside of home and work where you can spend some of your leisure time and socialize &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-14896","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-fitness"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14896","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=14896"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14896\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=14896"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=14896"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudhdtv.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=14896"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}