“Families who sweat together, stay together.”

Movement isn’t just good for the body—it’s one of the most powerful ways to build connection, reduce stress, and increase joy. And now, more families and communities are realizing that fitness isn’t just for the young—or the old. It’s for everyone, together.

Intergenerational fitness—where people of different ages engage in physical activity together—is quickly becoming one of the most exciting and inclusive trends in wellness. It brings families closer, improves the health of all participants, and helps fight loneliness and isolation in both the young and the young at heart.

A study by the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity found that older adults who exercise with younger partners are more likely to maintain long-term habits and experience greater mental and emotional well-being (Journal of Aging and Physical Activity). At the same time, young people benefit from stronger relationships, mentorship, and shared memories.

So how do we make this work in our daily lives? Here’s how to embrace intergenerational fitness—starting now.

1. Shift the Focus from Performance to Connection

Unlike competitive or age-specific fitness programs, intergenerational fitness is about togetherness, not intensity. You’re not trying to break records—you’re trying to build relationships.

Whether it’s a daily walk, a backyard dance party, or learning tai chi together, the goal is to share movement that makes everyone feel included and energized.

Action Step: Start with a weekly “family move time.” Pick a fun activity like yoga, swimming, or a walk around the neighborhood—and make it a recurring event.

2. Embrace Technology That Brings Generations Together

Fitness apps and online platforms can bridge age gaps and turn exercise into a fun, shared experience. Virtual classes make it easy for grandparents and grandchildren to move together—even if they live across the country.

Try these:

• GoNoodle (https://www.gonoodle.com) – Fun, kid-friendly movement videos perfect for family dance sessions.
• YouTube’s Grow Young Fitness – Offers gentle, senior-friendly workouts that younger people can join for bonding.
• FitOn (https://fitonapp.com) – Free fitness classes for all levels that you can do side-by-side.

Action Step: Choose a video workout that works for your entire group and do it together on a weekend morning—virtually or in person.

3. Use Movement to Share Values

Physical activity is an excellent time to model commitment, discipline, joy, and gratitude. Use it to talk about health in a positive way—focusing on how movement helps us feel strong, capable, and connected.

“Exercise is a celebration of what your body can do, not a punishment for what you ate.” — Women’s Health Magazine

Intergenerational movement shows kids that aging doesn’t mean slowing down—and it reminds older adults that vitality is lifelong.

Action Step: Pick one word to be your “movement theme” of the week (e.g., strength, kindness, energy). Reflect on it before or after your activity together.

4. Create Shared Goals (and Celebrate Progress)

Having a shared goal—like completing a step challenge, hiking a trail, or learning a dance routine—brings accountability and excitement. Even simple goals can build pride and connection.

A Psychology & Health study found that shared fitness goals boost motivation and bonding in group settings—especially among people with different experience levels (Taylor & Francis Online).

Action Step: Start a 30-day movement challenge together. Use a shared tracking chart or app like Strava (https://www.strava.com) or MyFitnessPal (https://www.myfitnesspal.com) to monitor progress—and celebrate with a healthy treat or outing.

5. Join or Start a Community Group

Look for community centers, parks, or local gyms that offer multi-generational fitness programs like family Zumba, walking clubs, or outdoor yoga. If none exist—create your own!

Organizations like SilverSneakers (https://tools.silversneakers.com) and YMCA often offer flexible programs that can be adapted for different generations.

Action Step: Search for intergenerational classes or clubs in your area—or start a walking group with neighbors and invite friends across generations to join.

6. Keep It Light and Fun

At its heart, intergenerational fitness is about play. It’s an invitation to be silly, joyful, and present. It’s a chance to move not out of obligation—but out of love for life and each other.

“Play is the highest form of research.” — Albert Einstein

Whether you’re hula-hooping in the backyard or doing a low-impact workout in the living room, let joy be the metric that matters most.

Action Step: Try a “fitness game night” where you turn classics like Simon Says, Twister, or scavenger hunts into a playful movement session.

Wellness isn’t about one generation thriving—it’s about all generations thriving, together.

Intergenerational fitness helps us move toward a world where aging is not feared, but embraced; where youth is not idealized, but respected; and where families and communities are stronger because they sweat, stretch, and laugh side by side.

How are you building wellness across generations? What activity could you start this week to connect movement with meaning?

Join the conversation in theAge Brilliantly Forum and share how you’re turning fitness into family bonding—and shaping a healthier, more connected future for all.