What is group fitness?

Group fitness is about getting active with other people and creating a fun, inclusive environment that makes working out feel less like a chore and more like shared fun.

Nothing beats the energy of a packed class where everyone's in sync, motivated by each other's drive to improve. Let's explore the different types of classes, what to expect and how you can get qualified to run group exercise classes.

What is a group fitness class?

When you think about group fitness, you might immediately picture cross-fit and boot camps. Those are absolutely group fitness, but there’s much more that falls under the umbrella, including:

• Reformer or floor pilates

• Yoga 

• High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) 

• Zumba

• Small group PT 

• Water aerobics

• Spin 

• Boxing 

• Barre 

• Dance 

• Circuit 

Some things are just more fun in a group! When you add in a motivating Group Fitness Instructor and energetic music, you're going to have a great time.

Benefits of group fitness training

Group fitness training brings back the fun of teamwork people miss from childhood sports like soccer or netball. 

It’s no wonder that run clubs and reformer pilates have taken off over the last couple of years. It’s a great combo of community and accountability that gets results. Whether it’s celebrating a new personal best or laughing together over a tough workout, the sportsmanship of group fitness is a powerful motivator.

What makes a great group fitness class?

A great group fitness class combines three essential elements: a good instructor, an inclusive environment and a shared purpose.

A skilled and motivating instructor

Your energy as an instructor sets the tone for the whole class. You'll guide everyone through moves with clear instructions, keep the vibe upbeat and make sure everyone is giving it their all safely. It's about reading the room, adjusting your style and knowing when to push or pull back to get the best from your class.

A welcoming and inclusive environment

Great group fitness leaders offer different levels of intensity to different people. For example, in a reformer pilates class, you may demonstrate beginner and intermediate moves or different positions so the whole class can get involved no matter age, ability or fitness level. 

A shared sense of purpose 

Something special happens when everyone's working towards their fitness goals together. You'll create an atmosphere where participants motivate each other, celebrate wins together and push through challenges as a team. This community vibe is what keeps people coming back and makes group fitness more than just another workout.

Why you should think about group fitness as a career

Group fitness is so popular because it’s a way for people to try something new, make friends and get fit while they’re at it. If you’re just starting out as a trainer or instructor, group fitness can help you get a feel for exercise as a career path.

If you’re a Personal Trainer, you can use group fitness classes to reach more clients. You also might suggest group fitness to one-on-one clients looking for more variety.

Thinking about getting into group fitness instructing? Check out our courses or give us a call today at 1300 616 180 to chat with our Career Advisors about your future in fitness.