Spice Up Your Workouts:

20/20 Lifestyles — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 19:41:00 GMT

Introducing variety to your Workouts through group fitness classes

Group fitness classes have long been popular with not only our members, but within the health and fitness industry in general. These classes allow members to exercise while getting the benefits of supervised coaching within a group setting. This group setting provides extra motivation, as well as a social outlet that encourages further exercise. Still, the choices for group exercise classes can seem daunting at a place like PRO Sports Club. It may be difficult to choose a class and make that time and money commitment. Knowing your specific fitness goals as well as the different types of classes offered helps in making an informed choice that satisfies both social and fitness needs.

The first thing to do is to look at your own fitness goals and needs. If you are not sure of where to start, fitness and health assessments are a good way to find your strengths and weaknesses. That can give you a better idea of what it is you need and want. Whether it is a swimsuit ready body, ten extra pounds of muscle, or a faster 10K time, there are specific classes that can meet these needs better than others. If flexibility is a goal, a yoga class might be better than a spinning class. If you want to get better at a specific activity or sport, look for a class such as Masters Swimming that offers a chance to perform that specific activity. Circuit training or step aerobics classes are better choices for some one who is looking for general conditioning as opposed to a specific skill.

Remember that classes differ in their physical demands and skills. A demanding class such as Boot Camp may not be the best choice for someone beginning a fitness program. A learning swimmer may not enjoy a Masters Swimming class filled with experienced and fit swimmers. There are classes for all fitness levels and skill sets. Do not be afraid to start with a class that seems easy. You can always move on to a more difficult class later on. If you are not sure, talk to the instructor and ask if a given class is appropriate for you. They will be happy to help you make the best decision for yourself. Instructors want their students to be happy with their class, not frustrated.

>After you have decided upon the right type of class to take, choose a specific one. Look at the class schedule and decide upon the class or classes that best fit into your own schedule. After all, the greatest class with the best teacher won’t help you if it is offered at the wrong times and days for you. Next, ask your friends who take the class or the instructor (instructors may teach multiple classes) that interests you what they like about their class. Instructor personality goes a long way in setting the tone of a class, so make sure there is a good match there. Whether you need a drill sergeant, cheerleader, or a calm Zen master, there are enough different teacher personalities that will mesh with what you want and need.

Group fitness classes are a great way to get the benefit of a coached workout within a group setting. Choosing a class that best suits your needs and schedule will allow you to get the most satisfaction from your group fitness experience, making it a useful addition to your exercise program.

Visit proclub.com to view Group Fitness Class Schedule.

Written by Devon Jones, PRO Sports Club Personal Trainer

Fitness : Group Fitness, Workouts

Spice Up Your Workouts: