One of the toughest things about exercising is staying motivated. Motivation isn’t just about getting yourself to the gym – it’s also about pushing yourself further and further, even when you think you’ve hit your limits.
Group exercises are a great way to get over the motivation barrier. Not only can they help you show up more often, but they can also help you push yourself a lot further.
How Group Classes Can Help Push Your Limits
When you’re on your own, it’s very easy to call it quits once the pain or burn starts. In reality, your body could be pushed a lot further.
When you’re in a group environment and you see everyone else around you pushing harder, it’s very hard to give up.
In addition, you have the energy of the teacher to help spur you on. Generally in any group class you’ll have a fit, energetic, encouraging teacher at the head of the class.
The Power of Committing to Classmates
Once you’ve been going to a class for a certain period of time, people will start to expect to see you at that class. You’ll become a regular.
Once other people start to expect you to show up, it’s very hard to just stop going to class.
Essentially what you’re doing is using peer pressure to force yourself into doing the exercises you wanted to do anyway.
Sticking to a Class Schedule
One way people talk themselves out of going to the gym is by telling themselves that they’ll come back on another day. That other day then gets postponed or changed and eventually they slide off their gym schedule altogether.
Changing your gym schedule is an easy first step to losing your schedule completely.
That’s why having fixed workout times in the form of gym classes can be extremely helpful. Instead of being able to work out whenever you want, you have to show up to the gym at a certain time.
The Many Different Classes You Can Take
Are you worried that you won’t like taking group classes? With so many different class options available, there’s truly a class for just about anyone.
If you’re into cardiovascular exercise, there are treadmill and cycling classes.
If you need to blow off some steam, kickboxing classes are a great way to do it. In fact, if you really wanted to learn boxing, many gyms offer real boxing classes as well.
If you want something more mellow or spiritual, yoga is a popular option. For a more intense version, try heated Yoga instead.
Want something that’s just a plain fun workout? Try a hip-hop or dance class. These classes will have you sweating like no tomorrow, while you’re listening to great music.
Group classes can be a phenomenal way to both get your workout and get motivated. If you’ve never tried a group class, today might be the day to start.
