We are always looking for ways to keep fit but there is often a stigma around group fitness classes. Whether it’s the notion that they are catered for older people, too easy or too difficult, made for beginners, or any other negative idea, the reality is they are simply untrue. Fitness classes can be an incredible way to keep fit physically and mentally, while teaming up with others. We’ve got six reasons why you should give a group fitness class a try.
Expert Guidance
It can be difficult to know what to do when you hit the gym. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced with your fitness we all hit points when we need some direction which is exactly what a group fitness class provides. All classes are taught by a fitness instructor who will bring you through your exercises whether that be on a spin bike, in a HIIT cardio session, pumping weights in a strength training class, or anything else, your instructor will ensure you have the perfect form, tempo, and so on. This can be a great way to get started on the right track in your fitness journey, or to give you something different to do during your regular workout as an advanced gym-goer.
Allows for People of All Ages and Abilities
Another added benefit of having guidance throughout a workout is that an instructor can structure workouts for people of all ages and abilities. While everyone in a class is performing the same type of routine, every person will be encouraged to work at a tempo that suits them or lift a weight that they are able to. This allows for people of all ages and fitness abilities to get involved. So, no matter your prior fitness experience, how fast or strong you are, you can jump straight into a fitness class and get going.
Brings Structure to Your Workouts
Some people struggle to build a fitness routine or wonder if they are doing enough. By scheduling in for a fitness class you have something to work around, whether you are already doing other fitness in the gym or pool, or if you are looking for something to help you keep fit. Most fitness classes last between 30 minutes to an hour meaning once you know your class start time you can fit in a workout around your busy, stressful schedule, whether that’s after dropping the children to school, on your lunch break, after work, whatever the scenario you can ensure you keep fit through classes. As well as having more structure to your daily workout sessions, you’ll also have guidance from the fitness instructor which will ensure each and every workout has more structure too.
Social Aspect
While keeping fit is the main goal of fitness classes, what many don’t realise is the social importance these classes can have. Many people find it difficult to work out alone, it can be hard to know what to do, to stay motivated, and with that, a sense of dread can seep into your workouts. However, in a fitness class setting you have like-minded people around you, trying to achieve similar targets to you that can push you that little bit extra. It’s an opportunity to make new friends, find people to go to the gym with outside of classes, to learn from other people who are on their fitness journey, all of which has a benefit in keeping you on the right track physically and more importantly mentally.
Good Way to Switch Things Up
If you’re a seasoned gym-goer, you may think you have your workout down to perfection and don’t need anything changed. However, no matter how good your workout routine is, if it stays the same for an extended period of time your body can get used to it, meaning you don’t see the same physical improvements as before, and your mind can get bored of it, which can lead to a lack of motivation when performing your exercises. Fitness classes can be a great way to get yourself out of your regular routine in the gym or pool and work muscles you don’t on a normal day, as well as spicing up your routine mentally. Being pushed to your limits by someone else, and seeing other ways of working the same muscle groups can help you find new, exciting exercises to add to your routine, or you might simply add a couple of fitness classes a week into your fitness timetable.
Makes You More Accountable
Last but certainly not least, fitness classes are a fantastic way to hold yourself accountable. It can be easy to skip a workout or labour through a routine if you’re by yourself, but it is completely different when you have people all around you pushing themselves to their limits and willing you on to do the same. Fitness classes have the ability to bring that spark to your routine, with a fitness instructor watching over you, allowing you to reach your potential in a safe environment, as they drive you to achieve your fitness goals. Some fitness classes also have the added element of payment in advance, meaning you are far less likely to miss a class as there is money involved and people often find when they pay for something, they want to get the most out of it, which in this case ensures you’ll go to your fitness classes and work as hard as you can.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, six reasons you should consider trying a group fitness class, whether it’s as a first-time gym-goer or to mix into your current fitness routine. There are so many benefits to be had and a fitness class out there to suit everyone. From the physical, mental, and social aspects, fitness classes are something that can have an extremely positive impact on people. So, why not check out what fitness classes are available in your local area and give them a try, you could just find your perfect way to work out.
How Aura Leisure Can Help
At Aura Leisure we offer a vast range of group fitness classes that help you reach your fitness targets. Whether you want to pump out the sweat in one of our Aura Spin classes, build muscle in our Aura HIIT Strength classes, work on balance and coordination in our Aura Step classes, or anything else, we’ve got something for you, plus our classes are free to our members. We’ve even got Aura Aqua Aerobics classes for those who like to reap the rewards of fitness classes while being in water and putting less stress on your joints. You can find out all about our incredible variety of fitness classes here.
