Fitness has changed a lot over time. What exercises people do, the reps and sets used, and even how people work out. Lately, there has been a huge push in group training. Orange Theory, World Health, Goodlife, and basically every gym with the space and membership numbers offers some form of group training. As a trainer, my group training sessions are some of my most fun sessions. It’s as much a social event as it is an exercising event. But what’s so good about group training?
I think the number one aspect that people like about group training is that you get to work out with friends. Exercising by yourself can be daunting, but having a friend (or multiple friends) around makes it more of a hang-out session instead of a super-serious workout. You get to laugh with each other, complain about the exercises, and enjoy the benefits that come from exercising.
On a similar note, there is also inclusion of some friendly competition. When you work out alone, there is no one there to push you as you go, and you may find that your motivation waivers as the workout progresses. In a group training setting, there are other people around that are there to motivate you. When you are getting tired, seeing someone else pushing through to finish a set/ rep/ session can be all the motivation you need to dig deep and keep going.
Another benefit of group training is that it can give you a reason to get together with friends. Everyone has enough to keep their own personal plates full (work/ kids/ travel/ significant other) and as such, sometimes seeing friends falls on the backburner. Being part of a group training program gives you a scheduled time to see and hang out with your friends while simultaneously getting a workout in!
One scary part about group training is – what if I’m not fit enough to keep up with the group? I don’t want to hold everyone back and embarrass myself! Well, most group training programs are set up in a way that everyone is able to push themselves as much as they want. It’s not about seeing who’s first done and who’s last; it’s about allowing everyone to get a workout in in a safe and welcoming environment.
There are plenty of places that offer group training. As mentioned above, Orange Theory specializes in group training workouts, World Health has their Team 45 workouts, and even Suggy Fitness likes to partake in group workouts in the summer!
If you’re interested in joining us for some group training this summer, feel free to check out our Group Training page, specifically our summer bootcamp section! We offer fun and effective workouts once a week all summer, aimed at all ability levels!