The newest thing to hit the fitness scene has been group fitness classes. Why are group fitness classes so popular? That's what I wondered, so I set out to interview a whole bunch of people that have participated in either boot camps or other forms of fitness classes to find out what makes them so popular.
Reason number one is because it's a harder workout than a "regular" sport. Most fitness orientated people usually play a sport like indoor soccer or basketball one day a week at least. And although these are great activities, people find they get a more intense workout with fitness classes. The reason behind this may be that most people are much more social at recreational sports and active gatherings then at a specific organized workout. Classes are a bit more serious and intense and it seems like everyone shares a common goal. There is one common objective of getting in incredible shape and improving performance or physique.
The more people I asked though, the more I heard the same themes coming up.
People like the group environment as most people are working towards one goal or another within fitness. People like the encouragement and the competition to keep them pushing their limits (no one really wants to be the weakest or the slowest). So while if you were on your own you might be tempted to shut it down and visit the water fountain, you're less likely to do that with 20 sets of sweaty eyes on you.
Camaraderie and potential friendships kept coming up. You are surrounded by 20 other like minded people, sharing a common goal and pushing your limits. A situation like this is bound to start friendships and make you feel like part of group.
A few more bonus reasons that were mentioned were that a group of people would be counting on you. The workouts are pre-planned with no opportunity to stop or wuss out. You can count on a bunch of people to kick your butt past your comfort zone. And that having structured workout times is a good thing.
Also, knowing the instructor has lots of experience is good. Doing stuff by yourself with little structure, most people feel like they are just flailing around. Because of this, they quit too early, stop going as frequently, and on and on until they are back on the couch.
Let's also not forget that most group fitness classes have pretty jamming music. If you are into thumping bass and high tempo tunes, then you are sure to get pumped once the music starts cranking.
At the end of the day. It's things like those listed above that have really contributed to the growing trend in group fitness and classes at gyms, recreational centers and parks all across the country.
So what are you waiting for? There is a class and an instructor out there just waiting to help you take your life to the next level of health and vitality. All you have to do, is get off the couch and they will take care of the rest!
