It's 6am on a chilly Tuesday morning at Genesis Health + Fitness Lilydale and the carpark is already packed. The first booked-out group fitness class of the day is about to commence. There are smiles, banter and positive vibes – and the music hasn't even started yet!
Welcome to the magic of group fitness.
Group fitness could be the missing key you’re looking for to boost your motivation and the fun factor of your fitness routine, particularly during the winter months ahead, according to PT Beaux Glenn and owner of Genesis Health + Fitness Lilydale.
“I still have to pinch myself when I see our early morning classes packed to the brim – it’s dark outside and there isn’t even a coffee shop open, but people are here and they are really pumped up – that’s the pull-power of group fitness.”
A study published in The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association found that working out in a group lowered stress by 26 percent and significantly improved quality of life, while those who exercised individually put in more effort but experienced less benefits. Another study found that 95 percent of those who started a weight-loss program with friends completed the program, compared to a 76 percent completion rate for those who tackled the program alone. The friend group was also 42 percent more likely to maintain their weight loss.
With a wide range of classes on offer every day, from Zumba and cycle to pilates and yoga, there are options to suit all lifestyles and fitness levels. Here’s why a group fitness class might be good for you, according to Beaux:
Social benefits
As kids, group exercise helped us learn vital social skills such as teamwork, commitment and communication; and this is still the case as adults, said Beaux.
“You’ll not only benefit from other people motivating you, but helping others stay motivated will leave you with a real sense of purpose and belonging. The more you go, the more you’ll feel part of a community.
“The positive atmosphere in class can lift your mood and get you in the right mindset to take on a challenge and tackle the rest of your day too – it’s a fun place to be with plenty of laughs. I’ve watched some great friendships form in gym classes over the years, it’s really lovely to see.”
Mental boost
There’s no doubt that all types of exercise improve our mental health, and group exercise has added benefits.
“Group exercise can push you beyond your comfort zone and encourage you to persevere even when things are feeling tough. You’re making a commitment when you book into a class, and that makes you less likely to skip the session. And having people around to support and encourage you can help you achieve things you thought were impossible.”
A practical choice
Group exercise can be a great fit for your lifestyle and all the logistical considerations that go alongside it. With classes scheduled at different times throughout the day there will always be something that suits your work or family commitments. You could even join a class with a friend and share lifts each week.
“In the colder, darker months, in particular, indoor group fitness classes are a great option,” said Beaux.
“They also allow you to experiment with new exercises and really mix up your week and add variety to your weekly exercise.
“You also know you are building your skills all under the expert guidance of a qualified instructor to make sure you’re really getting the most out of the session.”
Try out group fitness classes at your local Genesis Health + Fitness today, click here to find out what classes are available near you.