Fitness and socialising may not be the easiest things to fit into our jam-packed lives, but your long-term health and happiness will thank you for it. The happiest people who live in the world’s sought-after blue zones make daily choices that favour joy, and it’s time for us to follow suit (1). Sticking to your health goals shouldn’t require you to abandon your friends for the winter, so why not combine the two? Here are our 3 favourite ways to stay social and keep your workout routine fresh, as written by Sophie from doubleshotcollective.com.

1. Add a class to your weekend brunch date

Craving your favourite weekend brunch, but it clashes with your fitness class? It can be all too easy to skip out on a workout when your friends are involved, so try staying accountable by inviting them along. You’re much more likely to turn up to class if they’re going to be there, and it’s 10 times more enjoyable having a friend to partner up with during HIIT exercises! Afterwards, reward yourself by heading to your favourite brunch spot. You never know - you may even encourage each other to order healthier options from the menu.

2. Sweat-working is the new networking

‘Sweat-working’ - the latest buzzword straight from New York - encourages you to the swap boardroom brainstorming for a workout. Get the creative juices flowing and lose the corporate formality of the workplace, whilst creating authentic connections and inspired ideas over sweat-induced endorphins (2). Latest research argues that exercise encourages the growth of new brain cells in the hippocampus (a region in the brain responsible for creative thought and imagination), so think of it as training for your brain as well as your body! (3) A yoga class followed by a breakfast smoothie is a great way to hit your work and fitness goals in one.

3. Work hard, party harder

Indoor cycling gives a whole new meaning to the motto ‘work hard, play hard’, but it’s often the best way to get your clubbing fix while staying healthy. There is nothing quite like meeting friends for a night time ride with electronic music pumping, a light show to match, and then reward yourself with a cocktail afterwards. All the natural endorphins you released during class often results in making better choices afterwards too - you may find yourself craving more fruit and vegetables, choosing a healthier drink and sticking to one for longer! (4,5)

Article written by doubleshotcollective.com.

3 Ways to Maintain a Social Life and Fitness Routine

1. Add a class to your weekend brunch date

2. Sweat-working is the new networking

3. Work hard, party harder