What role does social support have in exercise adherence?

Social support plays a crucial role in exercise adherence by enhancing motivation and accountability, which leads to increased commitment to a regular exercise routine. When individuals engage in physical activities with friends, family, or workout groups, they often experience a greater sense of encouragement and shared goals. This supportive environment can make exercise more enjoyable and less isolating, which can help individuals overcome obstacles that may hinder their participation.

Having someone to share progress with or to participate in workouts can make the experience more fulfilling, as social connections often motivate individuals to show up and remain consistent, even when faced with challenges such as a busy schedule or low energy levels. The feeling of accountability to others can also create a stronger commitment to sticking with a fitness program, as people tend to not want to let down their supportive network.

Conversely, the other options highlight different aspects of social dynamics that may influence exercise behavior in negative ways, but they do not capture the primary positive effect that social support has on exercise adherence.