Kickboxing | Spinning | Zumba©

You’ve heard the raves and seen the crowds. Perhaps you’ve wondered what all the fuss is about!? Here are just a handful of reasons group fitness rocks!

STRUCTURE: With few exceptions, each group fitness class includes the three components of a well-rounded workout: warm-up, training (the “workout”), and cool down. You get the whole package! And because group fitness operates on a strict schedule, you’ll have to plan ahead of time to make it happen (hint: The things that get scheduled are the things that get done!).

UNITY: Uniting a group around a common goal brings an energy to your workout that you just can't mimic on the machines. At least for the duration of the class, you’re all in it together!

VARIETY: With offerings ranging from boot camp to hula dancing, there’s something for just about everyone. Even within the same class format, each instructor has his or her own style. If you don’t feel comfortable with a certain instructor, check the schedule for other options before giving up on the class entirely.

FLEXIBILITY: Just like any group setting, you will see all kinds of shapes, sizes and fitness levels around you. Most instructors will demonstrate the same moves at different “levels” or intensities so you can make it your own. Pace yourself. Feel free to opt-out of any move you feel uncomfortable with. Just keep moving!

RESULTS: You'll naturally push yourself a little harder and a little longer in a group fitness class because you'll have more adrenaline—and because someone else is calling the shots! Additionally, most classes follow an interval format, with a few minutes of higher intensity work followed by a recovery phase. As a result, you’ll burn more calories than you would during a typical, steady pace workout. For best results, participate in several different class formats to keep your workouts fresh and avoid adaptation (the dreaded plateau!).