There are positives and negatives in joining group fitness classes, but the positives far outweigh the negatives. If you sign up for a class that’s not your fitness level, you’ll either feel bored or inadequate because you can’t keep up. It’s important to find a class that is a good fit and meets your needs. Always talk to the instructor before you start or ask for a one-time option before you lock in months of classes. Make the fitness class something you enjoy doing.
You’ll have more fun than you would working out alone.
You can get together with friends, have fun, and get fit simultaneously when you and your friends join a group fitness class. You can go alone to meet new people and make friends. It may feel uncomfortable initially, but the longer you go, the more you’ll blend in and make friends. It improves your social life. A good social life increases life expectancy, prevents depression, and boosts good health. You’ll be more likely to work harder when others are watching.
You’ll get a personalized plan if your group is led by a certified trainer.
Certified trainers don’t lead all group classes but do lead some. When you sign up for one of those classes, you’ll get the same services as private training but not the exclusive attention. The trainer will design a program to fit your fitness level, goals, and needs. All the people will do the same exercise, but some will have modifications, like bent knee push-ups for less fit people. Each person will have different repetitions and sets.
There’s a lot of empathy and excitement in a group.
Even if your number of reps is smaller and your form is the easiest, you are on equal footing with someone who is extremely fit and does one-armed push-ups for a high number of reps and sets. Your goal is as hard for you to do as the super fit person’s is for him. People often find themselves cheering each other on to victory or supporting someone who struggles to meet their challenge.
- One 2006 meta-study at Nebraska Medical Center found that people who exercised in groups fared better than people who worked out alone in their homes. They attributed much of it to the bonding that took place.
- Whether you exercise alone at home or in a group setting, consistency is the key to success. Group sessions are put in people’s schedules as any appointment would be. It makes it a priority and increases the potential for consistency.
- When your fitness group does something you love, like spin or dance, you’re more prone to do it. If you go with a friend, you can practice together between classes, improving your fitness even more.
- Before you sign up for any exercise class, check with your healthcare professional first. If you have physical limitations, always tell the instructor to ensure the class fits and that modifications can be made if necessary.
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