Before losing 120 pounds, Stephanie Bailey explored every possible diet and workout routine available. She even went back to VHS tapes featuring Richard Simmons’ “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” and Billy Blanks’ “Tae Bo.” There was a lot of effort, but not much result.
“I’ve had my fair share of ups and downs, but it was around three or four years ago that I genuinely started to change my lifestyle,” Bailey, 38, shared. “I figured out how to eat in a healthier way and began to really enjoy exercising.”
These days, people in Manhattan are diving into classes like SoulCycle and strength training. Bailey has even adopted a new style, wearing trendy tops for going out—part of a movement dubbed “Daylife.”
Meanwhile, Sweatpals, a social fitness platform, coined this term to reshape how people engage with wellness activities, creating connections through fitness rather than traditional social outings. Think Pilates instead of grabbing a beer with friends, or a workout session rather than just hanging out.
“I personally prefer to spend my Friday nights at the gym or out for a jog,” said Salar Shahini, founder and CEO of Sweatpals. “I’d rather wake up on Saturday feeling refreshed instead of nursing a hangover.” He wondered if anyone else felt the same, and realized there was a gap: while we have LinkedIn for work and dating apps to meet partners, shouldn’t there be something to link those with fitness interests?
Changing Social Dynamics
The 2023 launch of Sweatpals seems perfectly timed as research indicates that young Americans are partying significantly less than they did two decades prior. This drop in social gatherings in the U.S. links to a rise in alcohol consumption, with the number of adults reporting they drink falling to a low not seen in 90 years—54%. This trend likely stems from high alcohol prices, an increased focus on health, and disinterest from Gen Z.
On the flip side, gym memberships are on the rise, often surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
“I think more people are hitting the gym now than before,” remarked Kenny Santucci, founder of a fitness studio and organizer of Strong New York, a fitness and wellness trade show. He mentioned recently having over 25 attendees in a class—an encouraging sign.
Interestingly, some running events, once dreaded during physical education classes, are experiencing a renewed interest.
Embracing this morning energy, Sweatpals collaborates with “Experience Designers” like Daybreaker, who hosts laid-back morning dance fitness events.
Finding What Works for You
Bailey has dance classes on her 2026 agenda. “I enjoy bike dancing and SoulCycle, so this seems fun,” she noted, adding that she’d also like to explore more therapeutic activities. “I would consider things like going to public baths interesting for a friend outing.”
And she’s not the only one. Wellness services such as acupuncture and ice baths are becoming increasingly popular throughout New York City.
Santucci shared a recent experience at a cold plunge and sauna event, which attracted 40 to 50 participants. “Five or six years ago, our social outings revolved around drinks and meals,” he recalled.
“I’ve had an interest in saunas and cold plunges for quite some time. It’s humorous since back then, the idea was almost torturous, but now it feels more like a leisure activity,” he said.
While some might still think of extreme cold as daunting, at least there’s a shared experience in it.
Creating Connections
Bailey mentioned she once utilized Sweatpals while in Los Angeles, where she wanted companionship for a run or hike but was alone. “I’m really glad I did—it’s about people connecting and forming new bonds,” she said, especially since her trainer, Santucci, also hosted Sweatpals.
“Post-COVID, the familiar spots where people mingled, like bars, aren’t as frequent anymore. It’s vital to use gym activities and health-oriented gatherings to foster connections,” Bailey explained.
Research suggests that these so-called “third places”—like gyms, parks, and cafes—enhance quality of life and emotional well-being.
Santucci emphasized that as society shifts online, these gathering spaces are becoming even more crucial.
With Gen Z reportedly spending an average of three hours daily on social media, the Sweatpals team aims to redirect their focus toward fitness and real-world relationships. Shahini highlighted their active presence in 24 markets, boasting over a million users who participate in about 200,000 events monthly.
“We’re simplifying the process for people to join our community without barriers, whether they’re looking to connect with others or simply want to meet like-minded fitness enthusiasts while in a new town,” he concluded.
