In an era where digital tools such as TikToK, YouTube, and Instagram have opened access to fitness instruction, the true game-changer for 2026 will be the power of community.
Instead of going it alone with apps or online videos, there is a growing interest in community-based activities that combine fitness with fun, flexibility, and social connection.
People are rediscovering the value of in-person group classes, local fitness challenges, and supportive accountability partnerships over isolated digital workouts. The West Chatham YMCA totally supports this shift to communal well-being. By cultivating these vital connections, the Y aims to transform fitness from a solo struggle into a shared journey, helping members maintain motivation, celebrate milestones together, and build lasting, healthy relationships.
For insights on the best ways to get fit for 2026 Jared Bradshaw, Fitness Lead at the West Chatham YMCA, says the best action is to make a start, no matter how small. As the head personal trainer he oversees the floor staff and designs new fitness programs. He says, “My job is caring for our members, helping our team grow and being open minded.”
Born and raised in Charleston, Jared discovered his passion for fitness at 15 years old during a high‑school weightlifting class. That led him into martial arts and track, before finding his true focus in strength training and overall wellness. Jared holds a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and a master’s degree in Health, Exercise, and Sports Science. He holds certifications from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator (TSAC-F).
In addition to his role at the Y, Jared is a Tactical Strength and Conditioning Coach at Fort Stewart. “My role is to help promote physical readiness for the soldiers on base to prepare them for their jobs.” he says, “We are basically training soldiers to ‘prepare for battle’ so they can return home.” They also coach soldiers to lead physical training sessions within their companies. A proud graduate of the Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina, Jared says he did not serve in the military but thinks of his coaching role at Fort Stewart as “ giving back to our military and that is very rewarding .It also helps me grow as a leader .”
Jared says, “There is a lot of technology on Instagram or TikToK, but people are getting bored with it. I am old school, I like the gym, and I like being with people at the gym who are actually trying to better themselves.” Joining a gym community can be difficult at first, but the Y offers many group opportunities that make it easy, such as the Wellness Jumpstart where you are assigned a wellness coach, and take part in health history assessments, goal setting sessions and an orientation on equipment.
Traditional group workouts, such as yoga, Pilates, and dance-cardio mashups, offer a sense of belonging and accountability. The group energy helps keep participants engaged and motivated. Jared, “We have fitness events designed for all skill levels, from work outs to yoga classes. Try Zumba- that’s a fun class! You’ll find people who cheer for you simply because you showed up.”
Exercising with other people makes it easier to stay consistent and enjoy the process. When someone expects you to show up, you’re far less likely to skip, and the shared energy naturally pushes you to work a little harder without even thinking about it. Workouts feel less like a chore and more like a shared experience, which keeps motivation high even on tough days.
For many newcomers the gym intimidation factor is real. Jared says, “When someone says, ‘I feel too old, too out of shape, and too clueless about gyms to even start’, I tell them that everyone starts somewhere. Every single person in that gym had a first day, and almost all of them walked in feeling unsure, intimidated, or overwhelmed. Lack of experience is universal on day one.”
The key is to shrink the steps. Don’t start with “I’m going to get fit.” Start with “I’m going to get in the car.” Then, “I made it to the parking lot.” Then, “I walked through the door.” These wins build momentum. “Once you’re inside, just try something,” says Jared, “Every machine has instructions right on it. Make your only goal on day one to learn two machines—nothing more. And if you’re unsure, ask someone for a quick tip. You’d be surprised how many people are happy to help because they remember exactly what it felt like to be new.”
And if you are getting fit but have health limitations? It is absolutely possible—you just have to approach it with patience, flexibility, and a focus on what your body can do rather than what it can’t. Progress doesn’t have to look like intense workouts or heavy weights; it can start with gentle movement, shorter sessions, or modified exercises that respect your limits. The key is consistency and listening to your body. Every bit of movement counts, and even small improvements in strength, mobility, or endurance can make daily life easier and more enjoyable.
Most people don’t quit because exercise is too hard. They quit because they never defined where they were going. Without clear goals, even the best workout routine starts to feel aimless. It doesn’t matter whether you’re training in a gym, a park, or your own backyard—if you’re moving without a destination, burnout shows up fast.
Know your “Why” and make it specific and personal. “Get healthy” is too vague to drive you on the days you don’t feel like it. But goals like lifting your grandkids with confidence or walking comfortably on your next vacation give your effort meaning. A clear “why” keeps you focused and committed. Goals give your effort direction. They turn random workouts into purposeful steps. They make progress visible, which keeps motivation alive. And they anchor your routine so you’re not relying on willpower alone.
Jared, “Showing up is the hardest part. If you walk through the door, you’re already doing more than the person who stayed home.” He stresses consistency. “Results don’t show up overnight, and too many people quit because they expect instant change. Give your body time. Give your habits time. Keep showing up, even when you feel like nothing is happening. That’s where the real transformation begins.” And reach out- you don’t have to do this alone!
Full Body Resistance Machines
(Effort Level/RPE 6-7)
1. Machine Leg Press – 2-3 x 10
2. Machine Chest Press – 2-3 x10
3. Machine Horizontal Row – 2-3 x 10
4. Lying Hamstring Curls – 2-3 x 10
5. Machine Shoulder Press – 2-3 x 10
6. Machine Lat Pulldowns – 2-3 x10
1. Bodyweight Squats – x10-15
2. Pushups/Incline Pushups – x5-10
3. Pull Ups/Inverted Rows on Barbell – x2-5/x5-10
4. Bodyweight Hip Hinge (RDLs) – x10-15
5. Battle Ropes/ Medicine Ball Slams/ Rower Machine – 1 minute
6.Core- Plank/ Bird Dogs/ Lying Leg Raises – 30 secs- 1 min/ x10/ x10
