Group exercise classes are proving one of the most popular fitness trends of 2018. These classes go beyond losing weight and gaining muscle; by offering physical and mental benefits, group exercise classes gives members the potential to achieve great results and improve overall health, while having fun. New and innovative formats of group exercise including CrossFit, bootcamps and Insanity coming to light all the time, keeping participants engaged and interested. The possibilities are endless!
This doesn’t mean that solo exercise training is bad – individual training has its own benefits; but group exercise classes are more popular than ever before. According to Les Mills UK, group exercisers are 26% less likely to cancel on a class than a gym-only member. Moreover, 35% remain loyal compared to 29% of total gym attendees. Here are some of the reasons why group exercise classes are here to stay:
Motivation Boost
It can be inspiring and motivating to have like-minded individuals around you with relatable goals. Exercising in a group can also make you push yourself beyond your perceived limitations. Not only your fellow supportive group exercisers, but also the encouraging instructors can help motivate you to push past these limits. The sense of team spirit encourages people in the group to work toward a similar goal. It can also spark a competitive side which you might be surprised to find you have!
Structured Setting
Group fitness classes are a great way to get fit without having to think or plan your workout. They are also a stress-free introduction for gym newbies or for anyone who isn’t a fan of going into the main gym and doing solo workouts. Each class is a more regimented way of exercising – you know exactly what part of your body you’re exercising, what muscle groups you’re targeting, and exactly how long you’re working out for. It’s a great way to get started at a new gym, as friendly instructors can assist you with any questions you may have about the gym and you’ll make new friends who you can go to the main gym with after!
Social Butterflies
Attending group fitness classes gets you off the sofa and out meeting new people while smashing your fitness goals. You’ll meet people with the same achievements in mind, and from all different fitness levels and backgrounds. Fitness classes are a wonderful place to meet people who have similar lifestyle goals and needs. Making new friends at the gym can end up making it feel like your second home!
Accountability
A group exercise class setting helps keep you attending. Some gyms require their members to sign up and book in advance to specific classes. This is great for keeping you accountable for your workout classes and keeps you on track to achieving your fitness goals. If you’re signed up and it’s penciled into your schedule, then there’s a good chance you won’t skip your class. Also, if you miss a class, your instructor and classmates ask where you were as they are genuinely concerned about your wellbeing as you’re part of their group exercise family.
Fun Factor
There’s no other way to put it: group exercise classes are fun! With the mix of great motivational music, energising workout moves and great group of people, the atmosphere in each class can be lively and enjoyable; so you’ll always feel inclined to do more!
Our Simply Gym clubs offer a variety of group exercise classes, including:
- HIIT
- Bootcamp
- Boxing
- Body Pump
- Indoor Cycling
- Yoga
- Pilates
Check out your local Simply Gym’s full timetable for full details and book yourself into one of our fantastic group exercise classes and become one of the #SimplyFamily.
