What’s the Hype About Group Fitness?
Have you ever wondered why people are as committed to their exercise classes as they are their work schedule? Have you ever wondered why people schedule appointments and social activities around their fitness schedule? Do you remember your first aerobics class? Maybe it was jazzercise, or kickboxing, or even yoga? On the other hand, are you someone that is curious about group exercise, but fears being uncoordinated, not fit enough, or intimidated by other participants? I am confident that you have said yes to at least one of these questions.
There are many reasons people choose to work out as a group. Number one, there is increased motivation. Number two, there is an accountability factor. Third, many people simply find it to be more fun. While all of these are indeed benefits, there are other additional factors you may not be considering. For example, do you know that group exercise instructors often have the same education and training background as personal trainers? Sometimes they have a greater span of knowledge if they teach multiple formats. With that being said, group exercise is free personal training! This is your opportunity to learn how to move correctly, be motivated, and improve form and technique… all for FREE!
Now, if you are someone that wants to try a spin class, but thinks it is too tough, or someone who wants to try Zumba, but thinks you can’t dance, stop worrying!! All instructors are trained to teach a variety of fitness levels. In other words, there will always be modifications and options for everyone. Additionally, many people don’t have perfect coordination, rhythm, timing, or may not work as hard as others. The bottom line is that the entire room is moving together, getting fit together, supporting each other, to fabulous and uplifting music!!
If you are already a group fitness junkie, then keep it up! I would encourage you to try different classes, or different instructors, and see how your body responds. If you are not already on the group fitness band wagon, I would encourage you to give it a try. I always tell my clients or members, that it usually takes 2-3 times in a class to learn the moves and feel comfortable. So, if you hate it once, try it again before disposing the idea. Lastly, try different formats!! Some of us are kickboxer’s, while some of us yogi’s. Hopefully, you will find your niche somewhere and improve your fitness in a fun, safe, and healthy way!
On a final note, I was someone who had always played sports, but never went to the gym. In college, my friends all went and I finally decided to go. After always feeling awkward on the machines, bored doing cardio, and never really knowing what I should be doing, I tried a class called BODYPUMP. From that point on, I was hooked. Long story short, this group exercise class, was not only what got me totally addicted to the gym, but it lead to the discovery of my passion working in the health and wellness industry. I am now a group exercise instructor and personal trainer, trying to share my fervor with others. You just never know where one sweaty workout will go! J
