There are many benefits to exercising in a group fitness class. Honestly, the best workout I ever got was in a class. I felt I needed to be the example for the group, so I pushed myself harder than I would’ve on my own. I saw many members of the class improve quickly. Also we looked forward to seeing each other and encouraged each other every time we came. Even the slowest out of shape person improved because they had us there helping the along the way. If you workout alone or don’t really know how to approach your goals, don’t be shy, try a class.
Here’s a great article on 10 benefits to taking a class.
1. Saving Time: The pace of group fitness classes makes the time fun and the energy level of the instructor helps you to forget you’re working hard.
2. Saving Money: Personal training, which I also recommend, is roughly three times the cost of a single group fitness class making group exercise classes perfect for the money conscious. The benefits you gain with a workout also save you money on health care, as people who workout are far less likely to get sick and also recover from illness and injury quicker than non-exercisers.
3. Make it Social: Group fitness is a great way to meet like-minded and like-motivated individuals. You’ll find you share common goals and interest which can be a great motivator to work hard in class and create accountability for coming back week after week.
4. Set the Tone: Group fitness is no longer confined to big-box gyms or health clubs. Small studios and fitness centers are on the rise with their personalized and detailed attention to your needs as a client.
5. Motivation: Having someone telling you to work harder and encouraging you to take your fitness to the next level will get you there. The instructor sets the tone, while having others in class offers another level of motivation through a tiny bit of competition and camaraderie.
6. Challenge: #5 benefit of motivation ties into the benefit of being challenged to work harder. You want to keep pace, meaning you will be challenged to work harder. Studies have proven that working out in a group results in a bigger calorie burn.
7. Keep it Fresh: Is there anything you CAN’T find with group fitness? Pilates, yoga, boot camp, HIIT, Zumba, boxing, circuits, TRX, running clubs and hiking groups. Whatever your flavor or need, chances are you can find a class or encourages someone to start one.
8. Learn Something New: A good class and a great instructor will show you how to work your body and muscles properly. Trying something different challenges both your mind and body, two things that ward off the effects of aging.
9. Safety: When beginning a new or different fitness routine, feeling safe and being safe are key. Instructors will be able to help explain and model what you’re doing, how to do it and what you should be feeling. Never hesitate to ask questions or as for alternative exercises if you need additional assistance.
10. Make it your own: An experienced group fitness instructor will offer modifications that allow for different fitness levels among the participants. Most classes will offer beginner, intermediate, and advanced exercise options. Make sure to come at least 5 minutes early when you’re taking a new class and introduce yourself to the instructor. Developing a relationship with your instructor is the key to finding the workout that will challenge you in a safe manner.
~ it’s about what YOU see in the mirror~
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