Doing sports, in addition to its healthy benefits, could be one of the most efficient way, in order to improve mental health and expand social connections. In my opinion, doing exercises with other people could help making new interesting acquaintances, however, hobbies are also a way to meet new people.
Firstly, when people attend specialized facility centers such as gyms and swimming pools, they become a part of a social group with its own rules and specific norms. It gives people sense of belonging to a society, which is crucial for stable mentality and successful socialization. Secondly, the sport centers gathering people with common interests and desires create a friendly atmosphere for a pleasant networking. For example, people, who do hiking, sometimes go for a long nature trip together. Finally, many people claim that they feel relieved and exhilarated as they done some exercises.
Moreover, being a sporty person is not essential anymore to be a social butterfly these days. Finding a social club on topic which individuals are currently interested in could be a good occasion in order to find new friends. For instance, people claim that it is easier to find a common language with individuals, who already share the same passions.
In conclusion, doing sports in a group of other peoples, who share common passion towards the sports could be a relaxing pastime, in addition individuals can find new friends in such places. However, it is not obligatory a sport being uniting topic, it could be any subject people are keen on.