MOHAMMED AMEENUDDIN
With Vision 2030, KSA has been increasing its focus on community fitness. As we are progressing towards it, Saudi Sports for All has been instrumental in pushing for more community support fitness groups. This has been on the rise where individuals from various backgrounds come together to encourage and motivate each other in a zeal to achieve personal fitness goals. These groups are not only about physical activity but also about fostering a sense of community, mental health, and well-being.
Why Join Fitness Support Groups?
In today’s world where work schedules and daily life can be taxing and social structures traditionally focused on family and friends, community support fitness groups provide an essential channel for individuals to meet like-minded people who share a common goal: health and wellness. They offer the following benefits:
Accountability: Accountability is one of the biggest motivators and it is done best when you are a part of a group with a common goal. Sharing progress updates with others plays as a catalyst to be consistent.
Emotional Support: Health and fitness routines can be challenging, both physically and mentally. Being a part of a group can provide emotional encouragement and a sense of support and ensure that hard work is celebrated.
Expert Guidance: Almost every group has coaches and experts who offer guidance so that the goals are met more efficiently and safely.
Social Connections: These groups promote a sense of belonging, creating friendships that extend beyond fitness. These groups can be a perfect starting point for newcomers to Riyadh or those looking to expand their social circle.
What Fitness Support Groups Can I Join In Riyadh?
Running Clubs: One of the common support groups in Riyadh is the running clubs. All of them focus on the joy of running and encouraging a healthy lifestyle. These groups organize weekly runs, training sessions, and social events, welcoming both beginners and experienced runners. Their inclusivity and focus on community make them a popular choice for those looking to improve their fitness levels in a supportive environment. A few popular ones are R7, Riyadh Urban Runners, We Run, The Clique, Adidas Runners, and more.
Running Clubs in Riyadh
R7
One of the first running clubs based in Riyadh
Activities: Running/Structured session
RUR- Riyadh Runners
Community-based running movement encouraging an active lifestyle
Activities: Running/Structured session and women only sessions
We Run
Running club that also hosts women-only runs
Activities:Running/Structured session, women-only sessions
The Clique
All women run and walk crew
Activities: Running, Walking
Adidas Runners
Activities: Group runs, workshops, and race training
Cycling Communities: Cycling has also gained traction in Riyadh, with groups such as Riyadh Cycling Club, and Riyadh Peloton Cycling Group offering cycling enthusiasts an opportunity to meet regularly and ride together. These groups provide a strong sense of community for individuals who enjoy outdoor fitness activities and want to explore Riyadh’s diverse landscapes on two wheels.
Cycling Clubs in Riyadh
Riyadh Cycling Club
Cycling club offering organized rides & more
Activities: Planned cycling sessions
Riyadh Peloton Cycling Group
An enjoyable cycling group in Riyadh
Activities: Planned cycling sessions
Yoga Studios: Yoga Studios emphasize mental well-being along with physical fitness. They host regular yoga classes, including meditation sessions, and organize fitness challenges designed to foster mindfulness and relaxation. Yoga, being a less intense form of exercise, attracts those looking for both physical health and emotional peace. Few of them like Yoga House, rooftop studios, pure yoga etc offer great community-building sessions.
Yoga Studios in Riyadh
Exhale Yoga
Different types of yoga and medication
Activities: Yoga, Sound Healing, Pilates, Barre, Aerial Dance
Yoga House
Classes for All Levels
Heal, Relax, Stretch & Tone
Activities: Yoga
instagram.com/ theyogahouse.sa/
Rooftop studios
Different types of Yoga classes offered
Activities: Yoga/Pilates
Pure Yoga
Moving your body and calming your mind through yoga
Activities: Yoga/Pilates
Hiking Groups: For those who love nature and mountains, many hiking groups have been active in the recent past. Some of them like Riyadh Hiking, Club Hikemania etc. have regular trips to outside Riyadh.
Hiking Groups in Riyadh
Riyadh Hiking
Daily trips to Tuwaiq Mountains and Red Sand dunes.
Activities: Hiking/tours
Club Hikemania
Public and private hiking trips
Activities: Hiking/tours
Gyms/Health clubs: Many fitness centers offer various classes like body pump, Zumba, Pilates, etc. a great way to be active in groups.
Despite Riyadh’s growing fitness culture, cultural and environmental challenges still hinder an active lifestyle. The city’s hot climate, limited public outdoor spaces, and traditional gender roles have often restricted fitness opportunities.
Fitness support groups, aligned with Vision 2030, are breaking these barriers. Indoor gyms and studios offer group sessions that provide respite from the heat, while female-only programs address cultural sensitivities, encouraging women to participate.
Additionally, the sports ministry is enhancing access to public spaces by introducing walking and cycling tracks across the city, gradually creating more opportunities for outdoor physical activities.
As Riyadh embraces a health-conscious lifestyle, fitness support groups are transforming fitness into a shared, community-driven experience, fostering a healthier city.
With more fitness programs, improved public infrastructure, and a focus on mental health, these groups help residents build healthier, more connected lives. They offer motivation, guidance, resources, and a sense of belonging, making them a cornerstone of Riyadh’s evolving fitness culture.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, joining a support group in Riyadh is a great way to improve your health, meet new people, and join the movement toward healthier living.
