IntroMany folks out there getting ready to dive into fitness for the first time are a little intimidated by walking into a fitness center full of people who already know what they’re doing, or perhaps they would rather not try to work out alone. Others have been going for a while and are looking for a new challenge, or maybe just want to inject some excitement into their workout. Your gym probably has an answer no matter which problem you have: fitness classes!
What’s a fitness class really like?
If you’ve taken a look at the board showing class times, you might be intimidated by the sheer number of classes. The last thing you want to do is show up to a class for advanced trainees and be gasping for breath 5 minutes in. The good news is the great majority of classes are suitable for all levels. If they aren’t, they are usually clearly indicated with “advanced” or “difficult” somewhere in their description. So feel free to walk on in (always try to be 2-3 minutes early out of respect for others and the instructor, and to get the necessary equipment ready for the class) and give them a try. You also might be worried how you’re going to make it through 30-60 minutes of intense exercise without a break. Stop worrying, because you don’t have to! At the beginning of most classes, the instructor will tell you that you can and should take a break when you feel the need. Bring water and a towel and place them in a corner or against a wall where no one will knock them over. While you’re first learning the moves, you might feel a bit awkward and self-conscious, but you shouldn’t be. Everyone was a first-timer once, and the experienced folks are going to be too busy with their own workouts to pay much, if any, attention to you. The only thing stopping you from trying now is fear; try to get over it and start learning today!
Classes for all levels
There are plenty of classes out there for both fitness beginners and fitness class beginners alike. The most popular and basic class will be the familiar Aerobics classes (commonly referred to as Basic, Beginner, or Aerobics 101). These are a great intro to fitness classes, and they can be as intense or moderate as you need them to be to get your best workout. In the same family are Step Aerobics classes that incorporate 4-12 inch steps to increase the difficulty of the workout. If you don’t think Aerobics is your thing, you might look into one of the dance classes your gym offers. Dance classes are the current “big thing” in the world of fitness classes, so odds are your fitness center will have several different options, including Basic Dance, Hip-Hop, Pop, Funk, Salsa and even Striptease. Are you more into martial arts? You should look into a Shadow Boxing or Kick Boxing class. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, keep in shape in the wintertime by trying a Cycling class. If your fitness center has a pool, they might even offer a fitness class that takes advantage of the unique training environment and resistance properties of water.
Most fitness centers also offer strength training classes designed to teach you some of the basics of resistance training while getting your heart pumping at the same time. These classes might include basic Lifting classes as well as hybrid programs that mix both lifting and cardio into the same workout. If you’re hesitant about adding strength training into your own routine, this might make the perfect introduction.
Classes for experienced trainees
If it’s time for a new challenge, you’ll want to look at some of the more advanced classes. Many of the classes you’ve attended before, including Aerobics, Step Aerobics, Dance, Kick Boxing and Cycling will all have advanced level classes featuring more dynamic moves and a higher tempo. There are also classes which you might not find at the beginner level, like Boot Camp fitness (intense workouts that simulate a military boot camp) or Dancer’s Workouts (high tempo workouts modeled after professional dance routines).Classes for total body health
If you’ve decided you need a break from traditional classes and want to focus on your flexibility or getting your ch’i in balance, take a look at some of the alternative classes at your fitness center. Most gyms feature several different Pilates classes which will focus on developing core strength and coordination through both standing and floor exercises. Additionally, some fitness centers offer several varieties of yoga classes all designed to help you relax and improve your flexibility, balance and posture while helping you remain or become centered emotionally and spiritually. You’ll never know until you try!
Summary
Fitness can be intimidating for the beginner, but you’re never too old to learn something new. Check out your fitness center’s fitness class schedule today!
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