Whether you want to lose weight, get toned, or simply improve your fitness level, a group class is a great way to accomplish your goals.
If you’re new to group classes, attending can be quite intimidating. So much so, a lot of people avoid going at all.
Luckily, there are steps you can take to ensure you have fun, stick with the class, and ultimately see some massive results. Read on to find out!
5 Tips for the Group Fitness Newbie
Here are five steps that can help ensure you are successful in a group class setting, particularly if you’re a total newbie.
1. Get an Accountability Buddy to Go with You
There’s nothing quite like having someone depend on you to hold you accountable. Knowing someone is getting up early in the morning with you to work out just might be the push you need to get out of bed and stick to your new work-out routine.
2. Introduce Yourself to the Instructor
Get to know your instructor from the start. It will help break the ice and make you way more comfortable, especially if you have any questions or concerns.
3. Avoid Standing in the Back
It can be so tempting to stand in the back of the class when you’re just starting out. After all, standing in front of everyone can feel intimidating – like all eyes are on you.
You don’t need to stand directly in front, but it’s also best not to stand in the back.
Position yourself somewhere in the middle. Doing so will give you a good vantage point so you can ensure proper form and follow the instructor. And don’t worry – your fellow students aren’t paying attention to you. Their attention is front and center on the instructor.
4. Pay Attention to Your Body
Your muscles are likely going to be sore during and after a workout. This doesn’t mean you should be in excruciating pain.
During your group class, if you feel like something feels “off” or you’re in a lot of pain, stop immediately. Talk to your instructor to see if you have the correct form or you’re at risk of injury. They can provide feedback and tips to prevent injuries and make the process more comfortable.
5. Don’t Give Up After One Class
Everyone makes progress at their own rate. You should never compare yourself to others in the class, whether they’ve been going to the class for months or they’re a newbie just like you.
Some people take to certain activities better than others. This doesn’t mean you should give up. Rather, it means you should dig in and keep trying. If you do this, you’ll feel even more proud of yourself when you reach your fitness goals.
Choose an Activity You Love to Ensure You Have Fun in Class
A bonus tip: Do what you love.
Have you ever heard the saying, “Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life”? The saying is as true for working out as it is for finding a job you love. Find a group workout class you enjoy, one you can’t wait to do each day, and working out won’t feel like work – it will feel like pure joy.
To find a workout that is best for you will take some trial and error, but don’t give up. Try a class a few times. If it doesn’t get your blood pumping and endorphins flowing, try something new. Keep going until you find the group class that is so fun you can’t help but go as often as possible!