As 2026 begins, many South Africans are once again setting intentions to move more, stress less, and commit to healthier, fitter lifestyles. There’s a significant range of options when it comes to deciding on physical activities and setting goals for new and improved fitness routines.
Affordability and accessibility, our personal abilities and preferences all play a role in what physical activities we choose to shape our fitness routines. But, this year, there’s another factor that has come to the forefront.
In a world where our ‘third spaces’ are decreasing, and where digital connection too often overrides in-person engagement, we are becoming increasingly aware of how important social connection is to our overall wellness. In its landmark report, From loneliness to social connection: charting a path to healthier societies, the WHO Commission on Social Connection has highlighted compelling evidence that loneliness and social isolation are as bad for our health and longevity as smoking and obesity.
Recent research has also shown that people who exercise together have higher rates of social health - better connections and more quality relationships. Evidence reveals that group exercise activities also improve motivation and result in more sustainable fitness routines.
Co-founder of One Flow Yoga and Wellness Social Club, Jeanae Dumas says, “On average, we should be aiming to spend 5 to 7 hours a week exercising. If we choose solo pursuits or uncomfortable, socially disconnected spaces for our fitness routines, then our physical activities will only be adding to the hours when we are socially isolated. Also, there’s no accountability when you are exercising alone, and more chance that your good intentions to become fit or improve your fitness in 2026 will fall by the wayside like most New Year’s resolutions.”
Why social wellness makes the difference
Situated in Green Point, One Flow is an industry leader in social wellness offering a range of yoga classes, Sauna Journeys and bespoke fitness classes such as Kettle Bell and the low-impact Sculpt LIIT classes. But what sets it apart is that social wellness and community is at the heart of everything – from the design of the actual spaces to the carefully curated group fitness experiences.
Jeanae says, “In 2026, the question for many will not only be what activity to choose, but where and with whom they choose to do it. People don’t just need a workout. They need connection, engagement and a true sense of belonging. These elements are what keep wellness habits alive and bring balance, enrichment and fulfilment into our lives. At One Flow, our promise to our members is an authentic personal experience of being immersed in a vibrant, like-minded community.”
Jeanae’s practical advice for shaping your 2026 fitness routine:
- Prioritise your social wellness - Your fitness routine should not only enhance your physical health, but your emotional wellbeing and your social wellness. Choose group activities and spaces where community is part of the experience and where you feel genuinely connected to others.
- Choose activities that your being needs – For instance, if you need flexibility or grounding, choose yoga; stamina, choose Parkruns, strength, choose Sculpt Kettle Bell, emotional release or resilience, choose a Sauna Journey, toning, choose Sculpt LIIT.
- Start small — but start - To begin, pick one to three group activities per week rather than attempting a full schedule. Remember that for practices such as yoga, you don’t need any required level of fitness from the start. Ease into each class, focus on what you can do, and give yourself time to find your rhythm.
- Pair physical activity with social connection - Schedule classes, saunas, walks or stretching sessions with a friend - or simply arrive open to meeting new people. Interactions before, during and after sessions help build a sense of belonging and make it easier to stay consistent and committed to your goals.
- Create simple weekly rituals - Anchor your week with repeatable habits: a favourite yoga class, a weekly Sculpt Kettle Bell or Sculpt LIIT session, a regular walking group or Saturday afternoon game of Padel. Add a recovery ritual, such as One Flow’s Rest & Restore Sauna Journey every Sunday to create a grounding rhythm in a busy year.
- Pay attention to mood, not only metrics - Consistency isn’t only about tracking steps or hours. Notice how your fitness routine affects sleep, stress, clarity, productivity, and resilience. These indicators tell you whether your routine is genuinely supporting your wellbeing.
- Join a community-based movement - Free and accessible options like Parkruns, community walking clubs and public outdoor gyms help you build consistency without financial strain. The collective energy keeps you accountable and motivated. Many of these initiatives, like Parkrun, have apps so that you can easily meet up at regular events in your area.
- Try cold-water ocean swimming with a group - Cold-water swimming has grown across South Africa’s coastline for a reason - the shared challenge is bonding, and the mood boost is immediate. Going with a group enhances safety and motivation. You can find cold water swimming groups near you on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. You could try contrast therapy, alternating sauna heat with cold plunges – but choose a space that enhances social connections and encourages the communal experience.
- Turn social time into movement time - Swap static catch-ups like coffee dates for active ones. Invite a friend for a beach walk, an early-morning training session, or a weekend bike ride. You’ll strengthen both fitness and friendships without needing extra hours in your week.
- Choose psychologically safe spaces - Community only matters if you feel comfortable and welcome. Explore different groups and spaces until you find those where you feel supported, valued, and motivated to return. That sense of belonging is often the missing element in long-term wellness.
