Group training – also known as “group personal training” or “group fitness classes” – is gaining popularity recently. As the name suggests, this type of training is done in a group setting and is led by a certified fitness instructor. It is an excellent supplement or alternative to the usual individual training.
When someone says “personal training,” group classes are certainly not the first thing that comes to mind. But, many people have found immense success with this method, especially when it comes to accountability, consistency, and motivation – and unsurprisingly so. After all, there is something inherently gratifying about exercising and having fun with the company of friends and other like-minded individuals.
Do you want to try enrolling in group fitness classes? Are you curious about what happens during a training session, and how this approach can help you reach your fitness goals? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will give you an overview of how group training works in Toronto – along with other useful information.
A Guide to How Group Fitness Training Works
Group training is a type of personal training, which means that it is usually done face-to-face. It encompasses a wide range of workouts, including cardio, core, strength training, flexibility, and even cycling. This training approach is highly dynamic and can include both indoor and outdoor exercises.
The exact process of group training varies from one gym to another. Here at First Class Personal Training, for instance, we only hold training sessions for a maximum of 5 participants. This ensures that every individual will get ample instruction and supervision from our personal coaches.
But at its core, group training essentially works the same way. That is, it relies on accountability, support, and camaraderie.
Take note that you don’t have to rely on group training alone. Instead, you can use it to complement your one-on-one workout sessions. This can add some spin and variety to your weekly routine, ensuring that things won’t ever get dull or repetitive.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Group Fitness Training?
Now that you understand how group training works, it is time to look at its advantages and disadvantages. This can help you decide if this training method is suitable for you.
Benefits of Group Training
- It can hold you accountable for showing up in the sessions and performing each exercise to the best of your abilities.
- Aside from accountability, group sessions can also provide you with support and encouragement – both from the trainer and your fellow trainees.
- Group training classes are incredibly fun, which can significantly boost your determination and motivation to attend the sessions.
- Like your usual personal training sessions, group classes are highly structured and organized as well. As you may know, having a well-thought-out plan in place is critical if you want to see visible results from your training.
- It can provide you with a solid foundation on physical fitness, including the importance of fitness and the proper execution of exercises. Such knowledge can go a long way in your journey to a healthy and active lifestyle.
- This type of personal training allows you to form strong bonds with your fellow participants, especially after everything that you have endured together.
- Aside from helping you make new friends, group classes will also allow you to improve and use your social skills.
Drawbacks of Group Training
- Some group classes assume that all the participants have the same fitness level. Unfortunately, this is rarely the case. For some, performing squats may be a breeze, while for others, it may be a struggle. If the instructors can’t provide personalized instruction, there is a risk of improper execution of exercises, which may lead to injuries and the development of bad form.
- Group fitness training can make the clients feel pressured instead of motivated.
- The competitive nature of group classes can cause some individuals to push themselves too hard, resulting in injuries.
- Group fitness sessions will only be effective if the participants feel comfortable and at ease with each other’s company. With that said, make sure to find a group of people or fitness class that suits your personality.
- Group classes are not always the best setup for teaching and learning, especially if there are too many participants. This is precisely why some fitness centres only offer group personal training sessions for a handful of clients or even less.
Related article: Why You Need to Hire a Personal Trainer
Who Is Group Training For?
As with any other method, group training may not always work for everyone. Here are some tips to help you decide if this approach is ideal for you.
Group personal training may be the right choice if:
- You want to take your fitness training to the next level.
- You want to diversify your workout routine. After all, there are certain exercises and activities that you can only do in a group setup.
- You want to have fun and feel challenged during your workout sessions.
- You want someone to hold you accountable.
- You want to increase your commitment to a workout regimen.
- You are seeking a community of individuals with the same goals and commitment to fitness as you.
- You want to receive support and encouragement from people in the same boat.
- You want to save up on the costs of hiring a personal trainer.
Conversely, group training may not be suitable for you if:
- You are an absolute beginner at working out.
- You feel uncomfortable and anxious at the idea of exercising with other people.
- You want more hands-on and more comprehensive instruction from your personal coach.
- You want more personalized training.
Related article: What Is the Cost of a Private Personal Trainer in Toronto?
Reach Your Fitness Goals with Group Personal Training
One of the best things about fitness training is that there are plenty of options at your disposal. For example, you don’t have to do one-on-one personal training if the idea of being solo doesn’t appeal to you. If you are the type of person who prefers to be in a team or wants to try working out with several people, group training might be what you are looking for.
Group personal training can go a long way in keeping you motivated and inspired throughout your fitness journey. Aside from helping you hit your fitness goals, it also showers you with plenty of other perks, such as meeting like-minded people, making new friends, and enhancing your social skills. Thanks to this, working out can now become a fun activity that you always look forward to.
Although teeming with wonderful benefits, it is important to know that group personal is not for everyone. Make sure to assess the pros and cons of this approach and see if it is the right fit for your needs and preferences, as well as your fitness goals and level. If you are confused, you can always consult the services of professional fitness instructors.
Does group training sound like a suitable approach for you? Or, maybe you want to find that out by trying it for yourself? Whatever your motivations or goals, First Class Personal Training is here for all your fitness needs. Fill out this contact form to schedule your very first appointment or learn more about how we do group fitness training. We are looking forward to hearing from you.
Gera is the Founder and Head Trainer of First Class Personal Training with over 20 years of professional experience, not only as a personal trainer but also as a nutrition and wellness counselor and a post rehabilitation specialist.
