Why Gym Friendships Are Powerful Friendships

What is it about working out with others that makes it so easy to share personal stories? Jeannine Stein, writing in the L.A. Times, explores the strange intimacy that often blooms when two or more people meet at the gym. Stein quotes clinical psychologist Richard Sherman, who says “there’s a comfort level at seeing the same friends and having something to talk about as you’re changing or working out.” Shermans tells us that the casual environment of the gym — no street clothes, no makeup — encourages people to let their hair down. “It’s almost like a sanctuary,” he says.