Moving Together: The Power of Community in Motion
If you walk into a park in urban China, you’re likely to see groups of adults doing all kinds of activities:
Playing chess or Mahjong
Practicing Tai Chi or other martial arts
Line dancing or partner dancing
And on weekends, participating in the marriage market*
* The marriage market is an opportunity for parents (and sometimes grandparents) to find suitable partners for their children. The kids aren’t there—only the adults are matchmaking.
You’ll also see people gathering to perform impressive feats of bodyweight strength—pull-ups on bars, leg lifts, balancing, and more.
This communal form of movement isn’t all that different from attending a group fitness class or gym session—except it’s outdoors, inclusive, and free to anyone who wants to join.
Why Group Movement Matters
There are real benefits to moving with other people:
The energy is contagious
You’re more likely to push yourself
Research shows lower rates of depression and reduced perceived stress when exercise is done in a group setting
I’ve experienced this firsthand.
I participated in an online group pole coaching intensive for five months that created a surprising amount of support and connection.
I also take private silks lessons weekly. Even though it’s one-on-one, the presence of another engaged human makes the experience richer. It boosts my perceived ability—and probably floods my brain with all the warm, fuzzy, social hormones too.
Movement as a Social Birthright
Humans are social creatures.
Our earliest interactions are with caregivers, and by ages 2 or 3, we’re figuring out how to play with others.
In his book The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt argues that one of the most essential ways kids develop social-emotional intelligence and resilience is through free play—which, importantly, involves movement.
Movement is a vehicle for connection.
And that brings us full circle.
What the Fitness Industry Forgets
I often feel like the fitness industry is focused on the wrong goals. It's obsessed with appearances, constantly telling people they should look a certain way.
But at the heart of movement is experience.
Joy. Connection. Presence.
That’s what keeps people moving—and grooving—well into their golden years. Just like those vibrant, active park-goers in China.
Warmly,
Jenn
P.S. I’m teaching a 6-week livestream handstand course this summer!
Can’t make it live? No problem—classes will be recorded.
If a mind-body approach to handstands sounds like your jam, check it out here.