The Benefits of Group Exercise

Group exercise is great way to get started with an exercise routine. If you’ve been reluctant to exercise regularly because you don’t find the motivation on your own, group exercise may be the answer. As long as you are willing to work hard and have a good time, you can get a lot of benefits from group exercise that you may not get with individual exercise.

Proper instruction

Trained workout instructors design safe, effective workout environments and provide guidance for both new and veteran class members to exercise the right way. With a teacher modeling the steps of a routine, you’ll gain confidence with it. Trained instructors implement a consistent exercise schedule with the proper intensity for a given group. In addition to the core exercise component, their classes include warm-up and cool down times. While you may be tempted to skip these steps when you work out on your own, you are more likely to stick it out in a group and will benefit accordingly.

Motivation and accountability

If you work out on your own, you may or may not be motivated to stick with it. When you sign up for a class with a friend, the two of you can hold each other accountable. Choose a workout partner who will build up your self-esteem, offering encouragement as you work hard to keep improving your skills. Be prepared to offer reciprocal encouragement. Make sure to find a class that works with your current schedule. If you don’t have to rearrange your entire life every week in order to work out, it’ll be easier to keep up with it.

Variety

One of the most common reasons that people quit working out is because they get bored. Running the same route in your neighborhood or working through the same exercise routines at home can get monotonous. When you’re in a group setting with engaging music and you get to keep trying new exercises, the time goes by much more quickly. New exercises also offer a challenge, which is good for both the mind and the body. With a variety, you’re also more likely to work multiple muscles.

There are a wide variety of classes available these days with everything from pilates to Zumba to hiking groups. You’re sure to find something that fits your interests and keeps your motivation level high while still providing needed variety.

Multiple levels

Many gyms and studios offer classes at multiple levels – beginner, intermediate, and advanced. It is important to be realistic and choose a class at the right level. You don’t want to be bored, but you also don’t want to get in over your head. Whenever you sign up for a new class, arrive a few minutes early at the first session and introduce yourself to the instructor. When you develop a relationship with an instructor, you’re more likely to find a workout that challenges you within a safe environment.

Socialization

Whether you are planning to exercise with a group of friends or you’re interested in meeting new like-minded people in your area, socialization can be a great aspect of a group exercise. You get to do something good for your health while you grow closer to existing friends and make new connections.