Being healthy doesn't mean having a longer life. It means having better life right now.
That depends on how you view the perspective of it but both can be correct.
-Better to go solo because im bit a shy type of person
You haven't experienced to gamble with your friends, mate? I advise you to do and try that because it's more fun if you do that. Just join with your friends that are good and down for it.
+1 on that. It is much more fun to win with friends, because you will have plenty of time to let them know how superior your betting skills are

Just joking, it is just better to watch the games with people or play poker with people you know. And I guess it involves some learning and evolution which may not happen when alone or when playing and wagering with strangers. I think most people bet in group as least in sports.