Finding value in a 'Group Fitness Class'

When the going gets tough, your peers keep you going!

While there is plenty you can do of your own accord to advance in your 'health & fitness' journey, there is nothing more valuable than being part of a community of people with similar goals.

Being part of a "Group Fitness Class" can help you in a number of ways. The big three being:

A. Staying consistent : While most of us find it difficult to block time out for exercise, being part of a structured program can help you be disciplined.

B. Ability to gauge progress : Being part of a program designed for your goals helps you monitor progress.

C. Group Energy : Even if it's a virtual class, knowing that there are others with similar goals working out with you can help keep your energy levels and motivation high.

To decide which 'Group Fitness Class' is the right fit for you, do the following:

A. Take a few trial classes : Get a feel of the class. See if you are comfortable with the group energy and the trainer / coach.

B. Talk to the coach / trainer and discuss your goals: This will give you an idea if the trainer is equipped to help you progress on your specific 'health & fitness' goals. It's alright if you don't have any specific goal in mind. A good trainer will be able to help you come up with a SMART goal ( goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time bound ) based on your current activity level & lifestyle needs.

C. Enroll for a minimum of 3 months : Once you have zeroed in on a class, stick to it for a minimum of 3 months. Stay consistent during this period.

If you are already part of a 'Group Fitness Class', then here are few guidelines to make the most of it:

A. Show up : Treat your daily workouts as important meetings that you cannot cancel. Showing up occasionally is not going to help you gauge the effectiveness of the program.

B. Participate: Trust the trainer / coach you signed up with and talk to them about your progress, expectations etc. If you have any apprehensions at any point of your training program, bring it up. While the coach has your best interest in mind, he / she is not a mind reader.

C. Interact with others : In a ‘Group Class' you will find people at different levels. If you have just joined, it's not a bad idea to talk to some of the more seasoned members about their journey.

Now and then, I like to pair up my class participants creating accountability partners within the class. Some clients have gained inspiration & ideas on how to prioritise their workout from their partners.

There is a lot you can learn from your peers, if you are willing to start a conversation with the intention of learning.

D. Mindset matters : Come to classes with an open mind. In mindfulness practice we call it, "the beginners mind". Coming with preset expectations hinders learning. Instead, come with the intention of ‘making the workout work for you'.

Also look at your daily movement practice as something that has far reaching implications. When you spend time taking care of yourself intentionally you show up in the world more confident, positive and are more productive. Remind yourself of that.

E. No competition : While it's great to take inspiration from people ahead of you in the journey, it isn't a good idea to compare your journey with others & judge yourself unfairly as being 'not good enough’. Be mindful of negative self talk ( it is bound to happen ) and know that it does not serve you.

Each body is different and your goal should be to get better than who you were previously.

In conclusion, being part of a “Group Fitness Class” has its own charm. Explore it. And in current times, don't discount the value of a “Group Fitness Virtual Class”. Be willing to give it a shot. If it doesn't work for you, you always have the choice of taking the journey alone.

And if you are already a part of a 'Group Class’ then do let me know how it has helped you grow in comments 💕