How to Make New Friends in Boston: Why Group Fitness Classes Are the Secret Ingredient
Moving to a new city—or even just trying to expand your social circle in Boston—can feel tough. Between busy work schedules, long commutes, and endless “let’s grab a drink sometime” plans that never actually happen, it’s no wonder so many people are Googling “how to make friends in Boston.”
Here’s the good news: you don’t need to force small talk at a bar or wait for a chance networking event to meet genuine, like-minded people. One of the best (and most underrated) ways to build real friendships in Boston is through group fitness classes.
Why Group Fitness is Great for Making Friends
Unlike coffee shop encounters or networking mixers, group fitness classes put you in the same room with people who already share a common interest: improving their health. That means you’ve got built-in conversation starters (hello, shared sore muscles) and a consistent space to see the same faces week after week.
Some of the biggest perks of group fitness for friendship-building include:
Consistency: You’re not just meeting someone once—you’ll see them every week at class.
Shared goals: Nothing bonds people faster than working toward strength, endurance, or confidence together.
Casual conversation built in: Rest periods or water breaks become quick chances to connect.
Support & accountability: You’ll have people cheering you on during tough sets, and you’ll naturally start cheering for them, too.
Why Skybound Group Classes Are Even Better
Of course, not all fitness classes are created equal. Big-box gyms often pack in 30+ people, making it hard to connect with anyone—let alone get help from a coach.
At Skybound Fitness in Malden, we do things differently:
Small classes, capped at 10 people. You’ll get personal attention from the coach and actually have time to chat with the people next to you.
Rest times = social times. Our programming is designed with built-in breaks, giving you natural windows for conversation instead of feeling rushed.
Community-centered vibe. We’re not about ego lifting or cliques—just real, down-to-earth people who want to get stronger and have fun.
Diverse, welcoming members. Our community includes artists, scientists, parents, and professionals—all looking to build friendships alongside fitness.
If you’re looking for a place to work out and find your people in Boston, Skybound is a game-changer.
Other Great Ways to Make Friends in Boston
We know community is bigger than just the gym. Some other great places to meet people include:
Social sports leagues like Volo Sports or ones through your city’s Recreation Department
Meetup groups for hobbies you love (painting, hiking, coding, board games).
Local volunteering opportunities through organizations like Boston Cares.
Coworking spaces and creative collectives around Cambridge, Somerville, and Malden.
Community fitness & wellness events across Boston (and yes, Skybound hosts these too!).
But here’s the thing: while those are great, nothing quite matches the built-in rhythm and encouragement of seeing the same group week after week in class. That’s what turns acquaintances into actual friends.
Where to Find Us
Skybound Fitness is located right in Malden, making it easy to reach from Boston, Somerville, Medford, and Everett. Whether you’re brand-new to the city or just looking to expand your circle, our classes are designed to help you feel stronger, more confident, and more connected.
👉 Check out our group class schedule here
