Last Updated on January 21, 2025 by Sarah Leeves

This is a guest blog from Keep Fit Association

On Brew Monday, Lynne Dowdican Chair of Keep Fit Association sets out how their Keep Fit teachers make sure they keep the fun in all their Keep Fit classes to keep the blues away…

The Keep Fit Association (KFA) has been a national organisation since 1956, but our journey began in the 1930s. Community is at the heart of everything we do, and we strive to reach as many people as possible. Our teachers’ weekly classes, featuring fun Laban Dance, bring much-needed friendship, fun, and fitness to participants.

Image courtesy of the Keep Fit Association

The power of social outside of class

We organise social evenings, day events, weekends away, and performance opportunities at local, regional, and national levels, including carnivals. Fundraising has been in our blood since the beginning, and we take pride in our achievements, big or small. Raising funds for charity is crucial in bringing our community together. Supporting a common cause with group milestones is the glue that holds us together.

KFA teachers foster a strong sense of community within their classes by organising various social activities beyond the typical movement and exercise routine. Coffee mornings provide a relaxed setting for members to chat and bond over a cup of coffee, while shared trips to the theatre and other events offer opportunities for cultural enrichment and shared experiences. These activities help build friendships and create a supportive network among participants, making the classes more enjoyable and engaging.

In addition to social gatherings, KFA teachers organise Keep Fit weekends away, day events focused on dance, and performance opportunities that allow members to showcase their skills and talents. Participation in carnivals and fundraising demonstration events further strengthens the sense of community as members work together towards a common goal.

These activities promote physical fitness and encourage a sense of belonging and camaraderie, making KFA classes a vibrant and cohesive community. Participants can build meaningful connections and friendships, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation, which negatively impact mental health. Engaging in group activities fosters a sense of belonging and community, boosting self-esteem and overall happiness.

Moreover, the various events and performance opportunities offer participants a chance to express themselves creatively and achieve personal goals. This sense of accomplishment and purpose can greatly improve mental well-being. Overall, the combination of social interaction, creative expression, and physical activity creates a fully rounded, connected experience for all who belong to the Keep Fit Association.

Providing social opportunities:7  top tips for group exercise instructors

Community is an integral part of the Keep Fit Association ethos, so we asked Lynne Dowdican, Chair, to share her top tips for instructors to create camaraderie and community spirit in their classes:

  1. Organise Social Activities: Plan regular social events such as coffee mornings, shared trips to the theatre, or group outings. These activities provide opportunities for participants to bond outside of the class environment and build lasting friendships.
  1. Encourage Participation in Events: Offer opportunities for participants to engage in events like dance days, performance showcases, and carnivals. These events allow participants to showcase their talents and create a sense of achievement and belonging.
  1. Plan Weekends Away: Where possible, organise weekend retreats or day trips that focus on team-building activities and relaxation. These trips help participants connect on a deeper level and create a strong sense of community.
  1. Fundraising and Volunteering: Involve participants in fundraising events or volunteer activities. Working together towards a common goal strengthens bonds and creates a sense of purpose and unity.
  1. Create Performance Opportunities: Provide platforms for participants to perform and demonstrate their skills. This boosts their confidence and fosters a supportive environment where everyone celebrates each other’s achievements.
  1. Promote Open Communication: Encourage open and honest communication within the group. Create a safe space where participants feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences.
  1. Work Together: Can’t do this alone? You don’t need to. By instructors joining organisations such as the Keep Fit Association, you have a ready support network and framework to access all the support you need to create a cohesive class.

Lynne Dowdican, Chair of the Keep Fit Association.

“Keep Fit Association teachers excel at creating a sense of community within their classes because they go beyond just teaching fitness. They foster an environment of friendship, support, and shared experiences, making every participant feel valued and connected. Their dedication to organising social activities, performance opportunities, and fundraising events ensures that everyone feels like a vital part of the community. By implementing these strategies, you too can create a vibrant and cohesive community within your classes, enhancing both the social and emotional well-being of your participants”.

Brew Monday – creating connections

Brew Monday is a reminder of the power of group exercise. Your class may be one of the only opportunities some people get to talk to other people, make new friends, or de-stress after a long, hard day.

But when you #StandAtTheFront, don’t put yourself last. Download our free mental health support guide for group exercise instructors here and make sure your mental health is a priority.