Group Fitness Classes – Pros & Cons

If you have attended group fitness classes before, you know there are wonderful benefits to this model as well as some potential drawbacks. 

Let’s lay out some of the pros and cons to help determine whether group fitness classes are right for you!

Pro – Meeting Like-Minded People

Group classes are great way to meet new people who are likely interested in the same things you. Fitness classes attract folks who are looking to improve their health and well-being, so if that’s you, you’ll fit right in.

Con – Meeting Like-Minded People

Hey, meeting new people is not for everyone! Some folks don’t enjoy being in a social environment with a number of other people when they are working out. If that’s the case, you may not love group classes. (Having said that, our members are top notch and I am sure you would love them!)

Pro – Accountability

Having a bunch of new friends waiting for you to walk in the door makes group fitness classes a great option for those who struggle to stick with their gym commitments. It’s a lot harder to skip the gym when you see a bunch of great people signed up and they are hoping you’ll be there too.

Con – Privacy

Group fitness classes don’t lend themselves to privacy when training. If you’re someone who likes to hide in a corner at the gym, stick in your ear buds, and cross your fingers that no one notices you, steer clear of group fitness! (Unless of course you’re coming out of your shell and wanting to try something new…)

Pro – Affordability

You can expect to pay accordingly for the value you receive when classes are led by an outstanding fitness coach at a high-quality facility. The cost per session will be at a lower price point for group classes because you are sharing the cost of the trainer and facility with a small group.

Con – Less Individual Coaching

While excellent group fitness classes will feature some 1:1 cues, corrections, and encouragement, you may only get a few specific comments from the coach or facilitator each class. If you enjoy getting specific feedback, Personal Training would likely be the best option. (Clicking that link will tell you more about whether Personal Training is right for you – go on, click it.)

But Are Group Fitness Classes Safe & Effective?

They absolutely can be!

Factors that influence the safety and effectiveness of group classes include:

• the instructor
• the culture and practices of the facility
• your specific fitness goals
• how quickly you want the results you desire

We believe the fastest way to get results is to work 1:1 with a Personal Trainer, catering sessions specifically to you and your goals. 

Having said that, we believe strongly in the group fitness model for all the reasons listed above. We have seen individuals not only reach their fitness goals in this environment, but exceed them!

Our classes at CFQB are entirely coach-led; this means the coach leads you through every part of the class. Coaches aren’t working out with you, but constantly moving through the room and offering supportive feedback and assistance. 

Safe and effective group fitness classes like ours feature ample instruction on how to move correctly. They also offer opportunities to practice those skills before putting them to the test in a high intensity workout. This learning progression is a key component in CrossFit training.

But most of all, group fitness classes are a place where you can watch yourself accomplish amazing things you never thought possible, make life-long friends, and take tangible steps towards becoming the healthiest you that you can be.

Trying something new can bring up all kinds of fears, so if you’re still unsure, read this.