Boost Your Social Fitness: Expert Insights for 2026 Resolutions

As the new year approaches, experts are urging individuals to consider adding social fitness to their list of resolutions for 2026. According to Troy Glover, a professor of recreation and leisure studies at the University of Waterloo, social isolation can significantly impact mental, physical, and emotional health. Glover emphasized that loneliness can even increase the risk of early death during an interview on The Morning Edition with Craig Norris on CBC Radio.

Glover highlighted the importance of being proactive in engaging with others. “Social fitness is being proactive and intentional about engaging in positive social interactions,” he stated. His research, spanning over 15 years, reveals a substantial body of literature that underscores the vital role of social health in overall well-being, including happiness.

Understanding the Risks of Social Isolation

Social isolation is more prevalent now than ever, affecting individuals of all ages. Glover pointed out that modern activities often promote solitary engagement, further complicating the issue. “We’re living through an age where increasingly the activities in which we engage tend to be solitary,” he explained. Many people may not even recognize their loneliness due to the distractions of modern entertainment.

Glover encourages people to actively improve their social interactions. Simple actions, such as connecting with neighbors and engaging in small talk, can foster a sense of community. He suggests that even a friendly wave or smile can be the first step towards building meaningful connections.

The importance of social fitness has been underscored by various studies. Glover noted that social isolation can be more detrimental to health than smoking 15 cigarettes a day. This alarming comparison serves as a reminder of the critical need for human interaction, especially during the winter months when feelings of loneliness may intensify.

Addressing Winter Mental Health

In response to the challenges posed by winter, Homewood Health, a mental health and treatment centre based in Guelph, has launched the Winter Wellbeing Mental Health Series. This initiative includes a series of videos aimed at providing practical tips for maintaining mental health throughout the season, not just during the holidays.

Gabrielle Provencher, director of enhanced mental health care at Homewood Health, noted a significant trend in mental health care demands. “We see a big dip in demand for mental health care in December, followed by a spike in January,” she explained. The commercialization of the holiday season can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and loneliness, as individuals compare their situations to the idealized versions presented in media.

Provencher added that the holiday season can bring about feelings of “grief, loss, and recovery” as many Canadians may not experience the joyful gatherings depicted in popular culture. The Winter Wellbeing Mental Health Series is now accessible on Homewood Health’s YouTube channel, providing resources for those seeking support during the colder months.

As 2026 approaches, focusing on social fitness may not only enhance personal well-being but also strengthen community bonds. By being intentional about social interactions, individuals can mitigate the risks associated with isolation and foster a healthier, more connected life.