Are group fitness classes effective? The question of whether to work out alone or with friends when trying to improve your fitness and reach personal records is always a hot topic. If you’re new to the gym, this question might be on your mind. The jury has spoken!
A new study shows that exercising in a group is more effective than working out alone.
Let’s explore why!
What is Group Fitness Training?
Are group fitness classes effective? As is just as it sounds: exercising in a group. People usually join group classes centered around an exercise they’re interested in. Zumba classes and dance fitness are popular with newcomers. These are examples of group fitness training sessions.
The Historic Study on Group Fitness
In 2011, Dr. Jinger Gottschall and a team from Penn State University set out to investigate how group fitness can foster a love for exercise that lasts a lifetime and provide health benefits to reduce the risk of heart disease.
In the 30-week Get Fit Together Study, 25 sedentary people began by “dipping their toes” into fitness for six weeks. Then, they gradually increased their exercise routine to six days a week, participating in various classes that matched the Physical Activity Guidelines for Fitness.
Gottschall noted that this gradual introduction to exercise meant participants didn’t feel sore and give up due to overworking unfit muscles. “And the results are awesome!” she said.
Participants experienced reductions in body mass, total cholesterol, and fat percentage, as well as increases in oxygen intake and lean mass. On average, they postponed cardiovascular disease by 3.6 years.
The most significant finding was that 20 out of the 25 participants never missed a single workout. This compliance rate of 98.8% is almost unheard of for exercise studies. Gottschall explained that this commitment shows how combining a consistent start with the support of others can work wonders.
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More Recent Studies about Group Fitness
A recent 12-week study found that those who participated in Les Mills Core™ group workouts scored significantly higher in stress reduction and overall quality of life—physical, mental, and emotional—compared to those who worked out alone.
In 2019, another study supported the idea that group exercise increases individual satisfaction, enjoyment, and effort.
The group effect is a powerful influence on our workouts and our chances of sticking with them.
The Group Effect
Les Mills’ Head of Research, Bryce Hastings, says, “Our findings show that we are social animals in the gym.” When you maximize the group effects, it leads to what we call “groupness.” The higher the level of groupness, the greater the increase in enjoyment, satisfaction, and effort.
Find a Les Mills workout near you and enjoy the “group effect”! Or, check out our timetabled classes, from WaterFit and BodyPump to Pilates.
Want personalized support on your fitness journey? Join Village Advance to work with our fitness specialists toward your fitness goals. Start today!
In a Hurry? Call us at 586-453-9846
Contact Apex Performance Today
All these features combined make it easy why so many people choose Apex Performance Gym over other options in Tampa: Its convenient location coupled with its comprehensive approach towards physical activity & health make it an ideal place for anyone wanting to achieve peak performance levels both mentally & physically! Members can take advantage of personal training in Tampa, one-on-one training, small group classes, and specialized courses for a wide variety of athletics, youth sports training, and nutritional guidance! Check out what others are saying about.
