Stronger Together: A Veteran’s Guide to Group Fitness

Life after service brings a new pace, and staying active can feel harder without the structure you once had. Many veterans find that group fitness classes fill that gap. They offer community, routine, and real health benefits backed by solid research.

Why Group Classes Work Well for Veterans

Research has shown that exercising in groups is associated with higher exercise adherence compared with individual-based programs¹. That matters because consistency is where progress happens.

Group settings also mirror parts of military life. You work as a team, follow a clear plan, and rely on steady encouragement. For many veterans, that setup feels natural and familiar.

The American Heart Association also reports that adults who train in group settings show significant improvements in cardiovascular health compared to those who train solo. This can make everyday tasks feel easier, especially for those managing old injuries.

Health Benefits You Can Feel

Group workouts support the areas many veterans care about most.

• Improved strength and mobility: Research shows that performing strength (resistance) training two to three times per week produces greater gains in muscle strength and size compared with training less frequently².
• Reduced stress: Harvard Health Publishing reports that regular aerobic exercise reduces levels of the body’s stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol³.
• Better sleep: Research shows that regular physical activity and exercise interventions are linked with better sleep quality and fewer sleep disturbances compared with low activity levels⁴.

These gains add up and support long-term well-being.

Beginner-Friendly Ways to Get Started

Many gyms offer entry-level classes built for all ages and abilities. Yoga, cycling, and functional strength circuits are popular starting points. Instructors provide modifications so you can adjust at your own pace. You do not need to be “fit enough” before joining. Just step in and do your very best—you’ve got this!

Making Fitness Affordable for Military Families

Cost is a real barrier, but veterans have more options than they might realize. Many fitness organizations actively support military communities.

Here are the most common savings opportunities:

• Local Gym Discounts: Depending on location, you can get discounts for being military at your local gym, it can lower monthly fees or reduce start-up costs.
• YMCA Military Outreach Program: Many branches offer free or reduced memberships for eligible families, especially during deployment cycles or transition periods.
• VA Whole Health Resources: Some facilities host no-cost group fitness classes as part of their wellness programs.
• City recreation centers: Local rec centers often offer military pricing that reduces membership fees by 10 to 30%, with access to full class schedules.
• Class trial passes: Many gyms provide free first-week access or low-cost drop-in rates, allowing you to try different programs before committing.

These options let you explore a variety of classes without stretching your budget.

Why USBA Cares About Wellness

A steady fitness routine supports more than physical health. It influences confidence, energy, sleep, and the way you show up for your family. At USBA, we understand how these daily choices connect to long-term stability. Wellness plays a role in readiness, and readiness plays a role in protecting your household.

Try a Class and See the Difference

If you are looking for a fresh start, try a class near you. A good group workout delivers community, accountability, and a sense of purpose that carries into the rest of your week. You do not need to train alone. The right class can help you feel stronger and more connected in this next chapter.

1. Golaszewski, N M et al. “Group exercise membership is associated with forms of social support, exercise identity, and amount of physical activity.” International journal of sport and exercise psychology vol. 20,2 (2022): 630-643. doi:10.1080/1612197x.2021.1891121”
2. Harvard Health Publishing. “Resistance Training by the Numbers.” Harvard Medical School, Harvard Health Publishing, https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/resistance-training-by-the-numbers. Accessed 8 Jan. 2026.
3. Harvard Health Publishing. “Exercising to Relax.” Harvard Medical School, Harvard Health Publishing, https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/exercising-to-relax. Accessed 8 Jan. 2026.Alnawwar, Majd A et al. “The Effect of Physical Activity on Sleep Quality and Sleep Disorder: A Systematic Review.” Cureus vol. 15,8 e43595. 16 Aug. 2023, doi:10.7759/cureus.43595
4. Marketeer. “Operational Readiness with Cold-Weather Military Tents.” Alaska Defense, 22 Aug. 2025, https://alaskadefense.com/maintaining-operational-readiness-with-cold-weather-military-tents/.