Getting Started With Group Exercise Classes
According to the American College of Sports Medicine, one of the most important trends in fitness for 2009 is group exercise, or fitness classes. I’ve been teaching anywhere between 7-10 group fitness classes a week for the past five years. I teach Spin (a cycling class), Butts n’ Guts (a class that focuses on tightening and toning – you guessed it – your butt and core), 50/50 (set up as half cardiovascular and half strength training), Core Circuit (focusing on strengthening the abs and back), Pilates (meditation, stretching and core strengthening), Bootcamp (little bit of everything – cardio, strength, plyometrics and abs) and a fitness class called “The Biggest Loser” which includes workouts from the hit TV show!
Group exercise and fitness classes have become very popular, as they provide participants with scheduled and supervised workouts. Scheduled exercise forces people to make a time commitment to fitness. Another perk of group exercise classes is that you have an instructor teaching you the proper form as well as pushing and motivating you at the same time.
What are the benefits of exercise classes?
Socializing – It’s easy to get a workout buddy and do the classes together. You also get the benefit of socializing with other people who are sweating just as much as you are.
Boredom Breaker – It’s hard to check out during a workout when you have a fitness instructor constantly pushing you onto the next exercise.
Increased safety – You have an instructor right there teaching and demonstrating the correct form. Proper form is important to maximize the benefit of exercise while minimizing the risk of injury.
Variety – Exercise classes allow you to change up your routine and throw something new and exciting in there each week.
See results! You will find that with a fitness trainer pushing you and with peer pressure to keep up with the group, you will be able to do things you normally wouldn’t be able to do on your own. I am a big believer in classes as they motivate and help people achieve the results they are looking for.
So how do I get started with a group exercise class?
From my experience, if you’re taking a class for the first time, it’s helpful to let the instructor know. This will allow the instructor to give any important instructions prior to the start of class OR to offer modifications throughout the class, if needed.
It can be intimidating to take a group exercise class for the first time – especially if there are “regulars” who seem to know how to do everything right away! Just remember that everyone has to start somewhere. The classes are designed to bring in new people and to allow everyone to have a great exercise experience. Go in with confidence, and if it makes you feel more comfortable, stay towards the back for the first few classes until you get the hang of it. After a while, you’ll be front and center showing everyone else how it’s done!
Most gyms offer a wide variety of exercise classes. I can guarantee there is one (or multiple) out there for you. Just jump in there and give it a shot. You may find that once you start taking classes, you don’t want to stop. You’ll look forward to your favorite class each week. Check the schedule ahead of time or ask someone from the staff if they offer beginner classes. Most gyms do!
Group fitness classes are high energy, fun and challenging. They can be a great way to socialize with other people interested in working out and getting in shape as well as an excellent way to push yourself to try new exercises you might not otherwise.
