Orange Theory, Pure Barre, and CrossFit are just a few of the group training classes available for men and women who want to get fit. Such is the continuing popularity of group classes that these are among the top fitness trends in 2017. The trend started in 2008, the start of the Great Recession, when people were less able to afford personal training so group training became more popular.
But just because it’s popular doesn’t mean that you can jump on the bandwagon. You have to determine whether group training will suit your needs and wants in a fitness program. Here are things that you can consider in this regard.
Motivation Factor
When you’re in a group training class, your inner motivation level will likely increase, thanks to the vibrant instructors, groovy music, and social interaction. You can even make new friends, which can be your source of inspiration in getting up off the couch to go to the American Family Fitness gym.
When you don’t feel like getting up, you can ask your fitness buddies to call and encourage you to stop being a couch potato. You have friends who share similar fitness goals – and that alone can be your motivation.
But you may not also like it, such as when you’re the type who works best on your own. You also have the right to refuse group training classes for this reason.
Accountability Factor
Group training classes aren’t just about attending the scheduled workouts. These are also about meeting the expectations of your instructors and fitness buddies in your classes. You have to deal with the consequences when you skip classes, such as being asked about your absence by your instructors and fitness buddies.
Of course, the accountability factor isn’t as stringent as in the workplace since your own progress – or the lack of it – is still your responsibility. You may even want to skip on group training classes because you want to protect your privacy from prying eyes.
Personalization Factor
Group training isn’t the best choice for people who want a personalized exercise programs to address their unique needs and wants. This is because group training, as its name implies, was designed for everybody so there’s little to no room in addressing individual strengths and weaknesses.
But if you’re looking for an exercise program that can address your general needs, then group training is a great choice. You can also add an individualized routine, if you want.
In the end, you have to decide whether group training classes will address your fitness goals. You can even try it once and see if, indeed, it’s for you.