In an age where physical and mental health are at the forefront of our priorities, a new trend is emerging that focuses on another crucial aspect of wellbeing: social fitness.

Recent research by Three UK, a leading provider of the UK’s fastest 5G network, Brits are increasingly looking to enhance their social and communication skills, build stronger networks, and cultivate a deeper sense of belonging. This, in turn, leads to a happier and healthier life.

According to Aislinn O’Connor, marketing director at Three UK & Ireland, emphasises the importance of building strong networks and deeper connections: “Our research shows that meaningful conversations and a sense of belonging are crucial for a well-connected life. With Mind, Body & Scroll, we aim to inspire Brits to boost their social fitness, enhancing their relationships and overall well-being on the UK’s fastest 5G network.”

What is ‘social fitness’?

Social fitness refers to the ability to effectively communicate, connect, and maintain meaningful relationships with others. The study by Three UK reveals a significant desire among Brits for deeper emotional connections, with 69 per cent of respondents acknowledging they could improve their relationships with people in their network. However, almost half (49 per cent) lack the confidence to communicate effectively, often struggling to connect even with family members.

Digital communication plays a key role in enhancing social fitness. It is thought that regular participation in group chats with friends, family, and colleagues can significantly improve our sense of belonging and overall happiness.

However, despite the ease of staying connected through various apps and channels these days, many people feel overwhelmed by the mindfield of communication methods available. Emojis have even become a staple of our daily communication, allowing us to express emotions and reactions instantly.

Three’s study found that 51 per cent of Brits are daunted by the number of apps and channels they use to keep in touch, with one in five utilising four different apps for communication. This has led to a decline in social fitness levels, as people struggle to navigate these platforms effectively.

Social fitness challenges

According to Three’s research, these four areas are where Brits struggle the most in social situations:

Speed of Conversations: Half of the respondents worry about the pace of group chats, often hesitating before sending or replying to messages.

Fear of Mistakes: More than a third re-read their messages before sending them to avoid errors.

Response Time: Gen Z, in particular, takes up to an hour to reply to messages, with one fifth having 20 unread messages at once.

Active Listening: Almost half of the nation struggles to concentrate during conversations, with 80% admitting that not actively listening impacts their personal relationships.

Mind, Body and Scroll

To help people improve their listening and communication skills, Three has set up a social fitness pop-up hub in London.

Across Wednesday 7th and Thursday 8th August, the general public can head to The Outernet in Central London and partake in a series of fun classes – on both days – which will help us all build and embrace our social and communication skills. All for free.

Event Highlights

Mind, Body and Scroll will feature classes curated and hosted by leading experts, including:

• Emoji Press: Master the art of emoji communication and avoid embarrassing mistakes.
• Heavyweight Listening: Improve your listening skills and learn to be more present in conversations.
• Group Therapy: Hosted by life coach Charlotte Silver, this session will explore the science of belonging and connection within your networks, focusing on group chat etiquette and maintaining lifelong bonds.

Londoners – and anyone visiting the city this week – don’t miss the opportunity to improve your social fitness and build a more connected, fulfilling life. Get tickets here.