Choosing a fitness class used to be quite simple. Most had a combination of cardio, muscle, abs and flexibility and we used steps, weights and bands.

Now, there are so many classes and programs promising to be the most effective, revolutionary with results and the ultimate workout. There are also endless options for equipment and techniques for training.

The first challenge has become figuring out which one might be right for you!

That's the bottom line - there is no one best workout. It very much depends on your goals and your preference.

Here are 3 main areas of group exercise to assess along with tips and questions to help you find the right fit!
 

1. The Class

Don't let yourself get swayed by a high-tech name, marketing or hype. Start by making a list of what's important to YOU!

Who? Identify your need and preferences including your:

  • Current fitness level
  • Experience with group exercise
  • Comfort with groups
  • Style of workout
  • Style of instruction, coaching and motivation you that inspires you
  • Preference for individual focus vs. group interaction

What results are you're looking for?

  • The basics - cardio, strength, flexibility, core/abs or a combination
  • Additional inclusions - stability, agility, relaxation, power
  • Do you want to improve or maintain the above

Why? Your motivation will have a huge impact on the type and style of class. Is your goal to:

  • Improve health
  • Get in shape
  • Lose weight
  • Improve athletic performance
  • Have fun - is this an element you want/need in your exercise routine
  • Be social, be connected, have a community
     

2. The Instructor

This hasn't changed. Regardless of the class or club, the instructor can make or break your group exercise experience. The two main reasons people choose a class over working out solo is fun and motivation - so the instructor should definitely provide those.

Teaching classes does require more than a great personality, however, so make sure your instructor has the following:

  • Certification, qualifications and experience - do they fit the class and your needs
  • Group exercise certification vs a single specialty - group exercise ensures they have a base knowledge of anatomy, physiology and instruction methods for group training; single certifications for a specialty class only may limit their ability to guide and coach beyond the scope of that class.
    For example...some dance programs are stand-alone, so if you have osteoporosis, the instructor may not be aware of contraindications (bad moves for you) and options that are more appropriate
  • Specialty only - if they have a single specialty certification, do they have additional experience that adds to their qualifications (like dance, martial arts, boxing, etc,)?
  • First aid/CPR - this should be in addition to basic qualifications and always be updated and current.

An engaging style - this is based on your needs and is such a personal choice

  • Must have's: The instructor should always be welcoming, inclusive, on time and introduce themselves and the format no matter how familiar the group!
  • Motivational style: Are they a drill sergeant, cheerleader, spiritual and does it work for you?
  • Educational style: Do they provide the amount of type of information you're looking for?
  • Coaching style: How to they instruct exercises or moves? This can be very different than motivation and education.

Group-focused and inclusive - a huge must-have for me! This differs from the engaging style as it speaks to their skills and ability to instruct other.

  • Participant-focused: Does the instructor observe and coach the group vs. a "pied-piper" or "follow me" style?
  • Group engagement: Is the entire group engaged vs. focused on the "front line" or keeners at the front who can often monopolize the class.
  • Professional: Does the instructor present and lead the class with a balance of enthusiasm, fun and professionalism including attire and approach?


3. The space

Options, of course, include fitness clubs and community centres, but there are so many specialty studios and spaces offering programs, you really do need to make sure ask questions and do your homework.

  • Is there enough space? Classes can be packed, so if you're new and need instruction it can be a tough atmosphere to find the comfort and coaching you need.
  • Proximity: Location is key as it will factor into your ability to stick with any program. Make sure it's convenient in the travels of your day.
  • Parking and travel: Look at these two variables specific to the time of day you'd be taking your class.
  • Stability: Does the club or program have a good reputation? Are they going to stick around or will it be tough for them to maintain their business?
  • Payment options: These have to be secure, comfortable and convenient.
  • Amenities: What do you need and what might you be paying for that you don't need.
  • Home options: DVD programs and online subscriptions are a growing area and make group exercise at home a very different experience offering variety and convenience. It does lack that group motivation though so be sure to weigh that in.


Tips for choosing your group exercise fit:

Finding a class is like conducting an interview - and you are. You're putting your safety and health in the hands of the instructor and club. It definitely worth some up-front time assessing, however, as it can be such an amazing option and inspiration to start or stay on track with your fitness routine.

  1. Assess your needs - For results and outcomes including physical goals, social, intensity, fun, style
  2. Make a short list - Of the types of classes that do fit
  3. Narrow down location - No matter how fun a class is, convenience will end up factoring into your ability to stick with it...particularly over the winter!
  4. Observe - Watch the participants for comfort, watch the instructor for their skills and style
  5. Check references - One of the best ways to find a class is to get a good reference
    - talk to people who attend the class when you observe
    - ask friends and coworkers
    - check online comments

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"Aerobics" classes have come a long way since the days of "The 20-Minute Workout," Jane Fonda and Richard Simmons, but they paved the way for group exercise as a popular option for exercise. Group fitness is now more technical, there is more training and education and the level of expectation with content is much higher.

What hasn't changed? A great group exercise experience can be inspiring and possibly make an amazing impact on your health, fitness, energy and outlook and a bad experience with a class can turn you off of exercise in an instant! Make sure you get in the right group!

If you have a specific question we'd love to hear from you at . We also have a quick survey to find out your biggest challenges to help plan workouts and support for our new online challenge to be announced soon!.