Ask the right questions and you’ll get the right answers. So, let me start with this question, “when was the last time you examined your fitness routine?”
Is your routine too cardio heavy? Does it have enough rest days or opportunities to work on your flexibility? Regardless of your answer there’s always room for improvement. Adding a group fitness class to your weekly workout schedule could be what you need to provide balance in your routine. But before you start your first cardio-kickboxing class answer the following questions.
What is your goal? Choosing the right fitness class comes down understanding what you want to achieve. For example, if you’re looking to tone or build muscle but you’re intimated by the free weight section at your gym, a strength-based group fitness class is probably what you’re looking for. Needless to say, if you want to run a 10K, a Zumba class will not get you there, but it will help you with your coordination and provide a nice break from your training. Answer this question and get the most out of your workouts.
What is your fitness personality? Easing going or intense? Require little instruction or a lot of guidance? Understanding your personality will help you pick the right class or help you determine if group fitness classes is your jam.
Who’s teaching the class? Similar to how people have different fitness personalities, instructors have different teaching styles. If you’re scoping out a fitness class, try to speak with the instructor to get a sense of the class, their style and personality to see if it will mesh with yours.
What are the reviews? If you want to know what a class is all about, get it straight from the source! Talk to someone who has taken the class or who is a participant. Word of mouth can be the best form of information.
What’s going on with your body? Some people are not able to tolerate a lot of jumping or running, due to injury or personal body mechanics. But don’t let that stop you from participating. Often you can modify the exercises you’re doing; a good instructor should help you with this.
Clarity comes from doing. If you’re not sure if fitness classes are up your alley, the best thing is to try it and the answer to the questions above will reveal themselves to you. Understanding your needs will help you avoid going through the motions of a class, not getting what you need and potentially injuring yourself.
