Group exercise classes have become extremely popular over the past few decades. While initially appearing as nothing more than a short-term fad, these sessions now attract millions of followers from all walks of life.
Why are these methods so attractive, and might they represent alternative options to performing fitness routines in solitary settings? Let’s put a bit of spring back into your step by addressing these questions.
The Primary Benefits of Group Fitness Classes
Most attendees will argue that any type of activity performed as a group will help to boost motivation levels. After all, it is always encouraging to know that others will be present; particularly when faced with challenging tasks that need to be overcome.
The social nature of group exercises is another important factor. Not only are these excellent ways to mingle with other like-minded individuals, but such classes will often enable you to make a few friends along the way. This type of support can enable you to reach your fitness goals within a reasonable period of time.
Choosing the Most Relevant Group Exercise Classes
Group exercise classes will vary in accordance with the instructor as well as the principles that they embrace. For instance, some primarily focus on strength training, while others are meant for those who wish to burn off excess calories. A handful can even be used when training for a specific event, such as an upcoming marathon.
This is why it is important to select a class that resonates with your ultimate goals. Also, be sure to select a routine that you are capable of following. It makes little sense to register for a class only to realize that its physical demands are far beyond your limits at the moment. Ask if it is possible to attend a session at no charge. You can therefore determine if it suits your needs.
A Quick Look at Some Popular Classes and the Unique Aspects of Each
This is yet another contentious question that has gained a fair amount of exposure in recent times. Studies have shown that vegan diets tend to be low in cholesterol and relatively high in fiber. These are important benefits in terms of digestion, weight loss and cardiovascular health. However, vegans will often find it difficult to obtain other nutrients such as protein, calcium, and salt. Omnivores will often consume all the necessary nutrients and yet, this may come at a cost in terms of saturated fat and cholesterol when taken in excess.
The main takeaway point here is that the term “healthier” will generally apply to individual dietary choices. For example, a vegan who does not obtain the recommended daily supply of iron could be at a higher risk of developing anemia, while an omnivore who fails to limit his or her fat intake may develop hypertension (high blood pressure). Thus, each side has valid points in regard to how poorly managed diets can have negative health consequences.
Zumba Group Classes
Zumba is a type of fitness class that bases many of its routines around Latin American music. Founded in 2001 by a Columbian choreographer named Beto Perez, it is now practiced in more than 200,000 locations around the world. One main benefit of Zumba is that many of the dance movements will enable students to engage their core muscles while burning off a significant amount of calories within decidedly entertaining settings.
Body Pump Classes
Body Pump classes instead focus upon the use of barbells to perform a series of dynamic movements. The weight of the barbell itself can be chosen based on issues such as your age and your physical strength, so challenges are always away. As you will be required to perform many compound movements (such as overhead presses and squats). Body Pump is an excellent way to engage muscles that might otherwise be difficult to target.
All About Strength in Numbers
Regardless of what type of class you select to join, always remember that your colleagues will help you along the way. This is beneficial if you have never engaged in these types of activities in the past. Furthermore, participants will often meet beforehand in order to grab a healthy snack or to perform stretching exercises. These options can provide you with the personal motivation required to surpass any goals that you might have already envisioned for yourself.
One Pillar of a Healthy Lifestyle
While group fitness sessions are amazing ways to adopt a healthier lifestyle, we should mention that these are only a single facet of the equation. It is just as important to embrace a healthy diet and to count your calories. You could otherwise begin to feel as if you are “spinning your wheels”.
This is one of the reasons why such classes can represent powerful tools when employing other weight-loss technologies, such as the Spatz3 adjustable gastric balloon. Not only will you eat less at any given time, but your body will respond by melting away excess fat. The chances are high that you will notice a difference within a relatively short period of time.
Whether you plan on attending for fun or to create a slim and trim body, group exercise classes are excellent ways to push yourself to the next level and beyond.
