Group Exercise
Group exercise offers a variety of benefits, some that you may miss out on if you work out on your own or during quiet times in the gym. Some of these benefits include exposure to a social and fun environment, a safe and effectively designed workout, a consistent exercise schedule (great way to get in those extra minutes for cardio), an accountability factor for participating in exercise and a workout that requires no prior exercise knowledge or experience.
A common reason given for quitting an exercise program is boredom. This is why some people prefer group exercise as the class will offer variety which will keep you motivated and interested, as well as giving you different instructor styles, music selection and interaction with other participants. For many people, an hour long workout goes by very quickly when there is music playing and you're trying new exercises. People stay interested because of the social atmosphere provided by group exercise.
Group exercise offers a workout for all levels, ranging from beginner to advanced. Participants do not need to know how to develop a safe and effective workout or which machines to use or for how long; it is already done for them. They simply have to show up with a positive attitude, participate, and most importantly, have fun!
So let's look at some pointers which outlines the main benefits of group exercise:
Routine - having scheduled classes are great for those who like to stick to routine. It is much easier to stick to a "plan of attack" and scheduled sessions than to allow yourself to make the decision while on route to your workout.
Encouragement from an instructor - 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.
Accountability - is a great motivator. Throup group exercise clients build friendships and keep each other accountable.
You can make friends with similar interests - likely to have more fun exercising in a group than working out on your own. Fitness classes are a great place to meet people who have similar lifestyle goals and needs.
You become part of a close-knit community that sweats, aches and achieves together.
Its fun - Classes are typically more entertaining, making time pass quicker than a solo workout. What isn't there to love about group ex…?
Challenge - tied in with motivation, you can challenge yourself to work harder. You want to keep pace, meaning you will be challenged to work harder.
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.
Group exercise offers modifications that allow for different fitness levels among the participants.
The leader creates an environment with "rules, direction and a clear plan".
You can "hide" in the beginning, relieving any self-imposed anxiety or pressure.
*Disclaimer: Individual results vary based on agreed goals. Click here for details.
