Group Fitness: The Fun Way to Exercise

                   

For a long time group fitness was just another name for aerobics classes.  In the 80s aerobics classes were all the rage. If you like fast paced, high energy classes with a heavy pounding beat of music it was, and still may be, perfect for you.  The quality of the classes pretty much depended on the instructor and sometimes all of that enthusiasm was just too much. I had no sense or rhythm, hated loud noises and couldn’t keep up, so group exercises didn’t work for me.

 

Group fitness has come along way since then.  A little more creative than just doing a weight routine circuit, it tries to make exercise a little more fun.  No thinking, no counting, just a solid workout to music in the company of friends.  Classes provide structured ways for you to get in shape.  It is pretty obvious that you expend twice the amount of energy that you would working-out on your own.

 

Group fitness instructors are now trained professionals.  The variety of classes allows you to pick and choose in order to vary your workouts. You can find something for everyone no matter what your mood, fitness level, or age.

 

If you live near a gym or exercise studio you can find a variety of classes at all hours of the day and evening.  Examples of group fitness classes include: Yoga, Pilates, Karate, Dance, Sculpt/Strength, Spinning/indoor group cycling and even Silver Sneakers programs.

 

Group classes actually encourage you to go to the gym more often. Fitness class schedules are usually set up on a monthly or quarterly basis so you know when they are being offered in advance. This means that you can jot it down on your calendar and it becomes an appointment that you have to keep. No excuses once you have it written down.  Keep a gym bag, a change of clothing and yoga mat in your car at all times. 

 

A good instructor will make subtle changes in her/his routines on a regular basis in order to keep things fresh, innovative, and fun.  Boredom is not allowed.

They also stress the importance of posture, balance and a healthy structure.  The goal is not only to get a good workout but to keep you injury free.

 

Focus only on how you are doing. You are not there to keep up with the other guy.  Work safely and to your own capacity.  The instructor will recognize that there are students at all levels in her/his classes and will demonstrates ways to modify positions and routines.

 

Your class becomes your support system.  Surrounding yourself by other like-minded people is good for you.  Group classes gives you a chance to meet other people interested in fitness and you are likely to make new friends.  Fitness classes provide an energetic environment where you can have fun, keep motivated, and reach for your goals.

 

Are you ready to start?  Don’t be intimidated, try different classes and different instructors, find a class appropriate for your level, and try out different times to find something that you can fit into your schedule.

 

Comments

[Joe Johnson]

Looking for motivation tips?
These are excellent motivation ideas to use. I use these motivation strategies in my everyday activities.

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Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health.Studies have shown a link between exercise and a reduced risk of certain cancers and other health disease.