If you’ve ever taken a LES MILLS BODYPUMP, Zumba or boot camp class, you’ve tried group fitness. The term group fitness encompasses any and all form of fitness that’s done in a group setting, lead by a personal trainer or group instructor. With this form of exercise growing in popularity, you can now find group fitness classes of nearly any kind, both aerobic- and strength-based.
Many gyms offer a whole schedule of group fitness classes, such as LES MILLS workouts, that include strength training, core, cardio and cycling. Moreover, many boutique studios are built on the group fitness model, with proprietary classes and programs that differ from those in a larger gym setting. You may be familiar with some of these formats, including barre, indoor cycling, and indoor rowing.
If you’ve never taken a group fitness class, then you’ve likely never experienced the many benefits, including extra motivation and friendly competition. Learn more before trying a group fitness class at your gym or signing up with a local studio.
Group fitnesS Includes Same benefits as Personal training – without the high costs
Many of us need (or wouldn’t mind) help with form, accountability, and overall results, but personal training can be expensive. If hiring a personal trainer isn’t a viable option for you, instead of struggling through every workout, or risking injury, take a group fitness class, which allows you to work with a fitness professional – minus the cash.
While the trainer may not be available to you at all times in a large group class, they’re always there to answer questions when you have them. Go early or stay late if you can’t ask in class, but do be respectful of their time since you aren’t paying for a full training session.
If you don’t have time before or after, watch throughout class as they correct and help others. You can learn a lot just by watching and listening.
Group Fitness CAn BOOST Motivation and CREATE accountability
Head to a group fitness class on the days you’re not motivated to work out. With a teacher telling you what to do, the session is less work for you, while still being effective.
If your problem is getting to the gym in the first place, a group class can be all the motivation you need: it would be rude to sign up and bail, leaving an open spot that could otherwise have been filled by someone else. Some small studios even charge a fee for missing a class if you’ve signed up in advance.
Group fitness is Fun. period.
One of the most popular reasons for taking a group fitness class is the simplest: They’re just plain fun. With music playing and everyone else working with you, sharing in the struggle and the success, it can feel more like a party than a workout. This is especially true of cycling and step aerobic classes, which were built around high-energy music and a social atmosphere.
If you like the fun aspect of group fitness, look for studios or gyms that offer a variety of dance-fitness classes. LES MILLS BODYJAM, Zumba and Jazzercise are popular nationwide “dance-style” options.
Working Out in a group can push you in a friendly way
Everyone is “in it together” in a group fitness class, which naturally lends itself to camaraderie among members. For people who like to be social, this is an important factor. For those who are competitive, the social aspect is valuable because with a little camaraderie comes friendly competition, pushing you to work harder than the person next to you.
This is why group fitness is perfect for days when your workout motivation is low, and you’d otherwise breeze through an easy workout. With both the attendees and the instructor pushing you, you’ll work harder than if you’d gone at it alone.
How to prep for your first GROUP FITNESS class
While all classes are different, there are still a few basic tips to keep in mind when prepping for your first group fitness class:
- Bring a sweat towel: some gyms even require this.
- Bring a water bottle so you don’t have to leave class to get a sip of water.
- Talk to the instructor before class if you have any questions or concerns. It’s good to tell the teacher if you have an injury of some kind, for example.
- Get familiar with the equipment before class and ask the questions so you don’t fall behind.
- Talk to other members. While this isn’t mandatory, it may give you insight into what to expect as a first-timer.
Group fitness classes are a great way to find motivation and accountability, while working with a trainer who can provide assistance with form and help you get results.
If you already have a membership, inquire about group fitness classes available to you. If not, take advantage of free trials at nearby studios to see which style of group fitness you like best.
Did you know you can add LES MILLS sport profiles in Polar Flow and track all those burned calories easily and accurately? Just something to keep in mind if you decide to try out group fitness (and you should!).
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Please note that the information provided in the Polar Blog articles cannot replace individual advice from health professionals. Please consult your physician before starting a new fitness program.
