As a Group Fitness instructor, I’m slightly bias when saying “I think Group Fitness classes are the best!” For someone who doesn’t like groups or being Instructor Jess helps participant Natalie's technique.instructed on how to work out, you may completely disagree with me. And that’s ok! This article shares member and instructor experiences related to Group Fitness to showcase just how awesome it can be. I asked various individuals why Group Fitness is important to them and how it fuels their workouts. For all those skeptics out there, maybe these real-life comments might change your mind about Group Fitness and encourage you to give it a try.

Here were the top themes said by Members and Group Fitness Instructors:

  1. Accountability

“Classes happen at the same time each week. Schedule a Group Fitness class just like you would a medical appointment and hold yourself accountable to attend. Don’t give into the couch; just go. You won’t regret it!” – Jess Walker

“I’m way more likely to attend if I’ve paid for a class or program. Especially when the instructor learns my name and notices if I’m not there.” – Sandra Berger

  1. Community

“The great thing about Group Fitness is that it’s a community. The members are all there for different reasons but come together as one group.” – Jacqueline Gordon

“I love that I can do something I love WITH people who love it as much as I do! There’s a sense of community and camaraderie about group fitness that makes it fun and enjoyable.” – Nathalie Dugo

  1. Feel-good effect

“Group Fitness can be a great social outing or way to meet new people who are also looking to work on their physical fitness.” – Cindy Hunt

“I feel like my most authentic self when I teach a group fitness class. It doesn’t matter how tired I am or the day I’m having, I honestly always look forward to teaching. The participants make it worth it! They show up for us every week and it fuels my soul. I love what we do.” – Mel Lynn 

“In all honesty, it’s the people that kept me coming back. I love the workouts, but it’s the people that I look forward to seeing the most. I’ve made the best relationships and lifelong friendships in these classes and I’m so grateful for how it changed my life.” – Nathalie Dugo

  1. Variety

“I love group fitness because it allows me to try things that I normally wouldn’t on my own.” – Megan Denholm

“What makes group fitness so great? It offers people an opportunity to try different styles of fitness at a reasonable rate.” – Cindy Hunt

“With all the different choices out there, you can focus on all aspects and provide balance to your workout routine. There are classes for aerobics, strength, conditioning, cardio, etc. and all taught by expert instructors. Its like having your own group of personal trainers to guide you through your fitness journey.” – Marc Britten

  1. Convenience

“It’s so nice to be able to turn off my brain – all the stresses of daily life out of the way, and just focus on the workout without having to plan it myself.” – Megan Denholm

“I like coming to class where the workout is already decided. It’s really nice because I can focus on doing my best, while receiving tips on technique and safety from the instructor.” – Jeremy Seeman

  1. Motivation

“I also find it incredibly motivating – I mean if the 99-year-old beside me can do it, then so can I.” – Cindy Hunt

“The fact that we all workout TOGETHER pushes me harder every time!” – Nathalie Dugo

“I love the connection with the members, watching their journeys. It’s funny I’ve heard from members “you keep me coming back”. But what they don’t realize is THEY are what keeps me coming back and what keeps me motivated.” – Nicole Pink

  1. Quality & Care

“My favourite thing about being up on stage is seeing the members achieve things they never thought they could. I wish I could capture their faces when they get through a class or a tough exercise. It is honestly the coolest thing about being an instructor.” – Jacqueline Gordon

“Instructors don’t become instructors over night. We study, train, learn, take courses, get evaluated, and do it all again. We set aside personal time each week to learn new choreography or plan a workout; not because we have to, but because we WANT to. We want to make sure we are giving you the best possible experience with top-notch knowledge.” – Jess Walker

If these 7 reasons aren’t enough, take part in a group fitness class at MacEwan in the month of March and enter to win prizes and at the same time help us beat U of A in our final fitness challenge of the year.

by Jess Walker

Jess is certified a Group Fitness instructor teaching Barre, Power Hour Conditioning, and Older Adult Cardio here at MacEwan University Sport and Wellness. She is also our Recreation Special Event Coordinator.