Emotional Benefits of Virtual Fitness
Virtual connections can boost mental health.
When it comes to virtual fitness, a significant takeaway for participants is that technology-enabled training can offer much more than physical improvements. Factors such as emotional engagement, belonging and community enhance mental health and strengthen the fitness membership community.
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Researchers from Fielding Graduate University conducted a study to assess whether the social connection offered by the Peloton experience provided benefits that can improve personal growth.
To measure the psycho-social benefits, investigators applied the concept of kama muta, a Sanskrit term that describes the mind-body response to something meaningful or inspirational—the immediate combined physiological and emotional experience of warmth and connection. The survey measured kama muta sensations, positive emotions and a sense of belonging. Personal growth was assessed using scales measuring appreciation of strengths and openness to new opportunities.
Investigators recruited 1,036 individuals over social media. Inclusion criteria required Peloton membership. The sample population had limitations: It skewed 95% female and did not reflect U.S. racial demographics. However, age and income distribution did approximate Peloton users. Survey respondents self-selected based on program interest and enthusiasm, but study authors underscore the importance of understanding brand advocates and satisfying core customer needs as important to customer satisfaction and sustained membership revenues.
Analysis showed that participants’ experiences of connectedness with others, belonging and community membership predicted their perceptions of personal growth. Contrary to expectations, the community experience and connection had more predictive power than the relationships with individual instructors. The authors recommend more research about the emotional benefits of virtual fitness communities when not under pandemic circumstances.
This research is from an article currently pending publication, “An Exercise in Connecting: Kama Muta, Personal Growth, and the Peloton Experience,” by Pamela Rutledge, PhD, Scott Garner, PhD, and Holly Collins.
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Shirley Eichenberger-Archer, JD, MA
Shirley Archer, JD, MA, is an internationally acknowledged integrative health and mindfulness specialist, best-selling author of 16 fitness and wellness books translated into multiple languages and sold worldwide, award-winning health journalist, contributing editor to Fitness Journal, media spokesperson, and IDEA's 2008 Fitness Instructor of the Year. She's a 25-year industry veteran and former health and fitness educator at the Stanford Prevention Research Center, who has served on multiple industry committees and co-authored trade books and manuals for ACE, ACSM and YMCA of the USA. She has appeared on TV worldwide and was a featured trainer on America's Next Top Model.
