Group Fitness Classes 101

As a group fitness instructor, I see alot of different people attend classes. I try to make each student feel welcome and comfortable, as all teachers should do! But if you are trying group fitness for the first time or just trying a new type of group class, there are some preemptive measures you can take to ensure you are successful. Be sure you always give any new workout three tries before making a final decision on it. Everything from your mood to your level of hydration to the number of people in the class can impact your experience.

Before you walk in the door, examine the crowd. Class participants can give you a lot of information about the experience upon which you are about to embark. Determine if people of similar age and conditioning level are present and decide if that matters to you. Just because the class is “older” or “younger” does not mean you will not enjoy it. Everyone has different happiness or comfort parameters, so the age of our fellow exerciser may be irrelevant. Younger patrons may have great energy to contribute to your experience just as older ones may offer you inspiration... its up to you!

Understanding the nature of the class is also a critical factor in your ultimate enjoyment of a new workout. If you hate to run, you may not enjoy a sports inspired circuit class. On the other hand, if you hope to run, but lack the requisite conditioning level, a bootcamp or sports conditioning class may be the perfect place to start. Feel free to ask instructors, employees, and/or other participants what the class really is and how they like it. Sometimes that subjective information is the best you will get!

It is especially important to arrive early to a new class. Being present from the first beat will ensure you can take advantage of all the planned warm up. Many instructors preview combinations and/or choreography in this segment and also explain options and levels. A few moments with the instructor, when possible, can also help you understand the intensity and duration of the class. Many find that extra information comforting which results in a better class experience.

As in real estate, three simple factors can have either tragic or magic consequences for your group class experience: LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. No one wants to be singled out, stand in the very front, or appear uncoordinated in a new class. Being able to see and hear the presenter, however, is of utmost importance. Try to find a spot directly in front of the instructor, not necessarily in the front row. Until you are familiar with the cues and movements of a new instructor, being able to view them as “straight on” as possible will be enormously helpful. The front row is not required, but the second is a good idea!

Why try group? Group fitness offers a unique social component that many enjoy. It is difficult to develop relationships with treadmills and benches. Having people around you experiencing the same workout and pushing toward the same goal can be very encouraging. The energy of others in the room can be infectious-in a good way! Choose your new classes wisely, but do try something new this year. Find the class in which your peers participate that fulfills your interests and you can attend from start to finish while squarely viewing the instructor. All that will be left to do then is fill your water bottle and have a great workout!