People Are Working Out Together to Overcome Grief. Here’s Why It Can Be Beneficial

The positive effects of exercise on mental health are well documented, with research confirming its ability to boost neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins. In light of this evidence, many individuals grappling with grief are turning to physical activity as a means of emotional release. Initiatives such as the Grief, Sweat & Tears fitness classes are providing both a communal space and a unique method for people to navigate their loss together.

Sylvia Borowska, an instructor at Liftonic gym, recently highlighted the impact of her class while discussing her approach. During a session, she instructed participants to lift heavy weights as a symbolic gesture representing the weight of their grief. “Do as many deadlifts as you can for the amount of time that the person you’ve lost has passed,” she encouraged her class, emphasising that grieving can feel burdensome, but the strength derived from collective engagement can bring healing.

Founded in December 2025, Grief, Sweat & Tears has become a vital resource for those dealing with bereavement. The community-driven initiative hosts numerous pop-up classes across New York City, allowing participants to exercise together while sharing their individual stories of loss. As they sweat, attendees find comfort in the company of others who understand their experiences, thus fostering a supportive atmosphere that transcends traditional therapy.

This innovative approach to grief has garnered widespread attention, with the organisation reportedly aiding approximately 400 individuals in just the past six months. The founders stress that these fitness sessions are not structured as therapy or a formal support group; instead, they focus on the benefits of shared movement and emotional release as participants bond over their mutual loss.

The scientific community supports the efficacy of exercise as a method to enhance mental well-being. Earlier this year, a comprehensive review published by the Cochrane Library indicated that physical activity could be as effective in alleviating depression as conventional medication. Dr. Stephen Mateka, medical director of psychiatry at Inspira Health, reiterated this notion, explaining how exercise positively influences neurotransmitter function.

Adding to this body of research, a recent 2023 study has shown that physical activity promotes resilience and serves as a protective factor against chronic depression following traumatic loss. Participants who engaged in regular exercise during their bereavement were less likely to experience long-term depressive symptoms compared to those who did not.

Mary-Frances O’Connor, a respected grief expert and author of “The Grieving Body: How the Stress of Loss Can Be an Opportunity for Healing,” highlighted that much of grieving cannot be articulated verbally. She noted that engaging in physical activities provides individuals with a sense of agency at a time when life can feel overwhelmingly chaotic. This empowerment can pave the way for reconnecting with community life, a crucial but often overlooked aspect of the grieving process.

While the benefits of exercise are significant, experts caution against relying solely on physical activity as a means of processing grief. Professional therapy remains an essential resource for those navigating the tumultuous waters of loss and trauma. Combining exercise with therapeutic support can offer a holistic approach to healing, allowing individuals to address their emotional wounds effectively while also nurturing their physical health.

In summary, initiatives like Grief, Sweat & Tears exemplify a growing trend of using fitness as a form of shared healing for those experiencing grief. As scientific research continues to affirm the mental health benefits of physical activity, it is evident that community-driven programmes can play a critical role in supporting individuals on their journey through mourning, providing both an avenue for emotional expression and a path towards recovery.