If you’re looking to take a step outside your comfort zone to upgrade your fitness routine, our group fitness classes are for you. Group fitness classes are more popular than ever, and they’re a great way to improve your overall health and wellness.
You’ll be directed by a trainer and surrounded by like-minded people working towards their fitness goals. But if you’re preparing for your first time in a group fitness setting, it can feel intimidating—especially if you’re new to the gym or not comfortable working out in front of other people. So how can you make sure that your first time in a group class goes smoothly? Read on for our five tips for having a successful first experience in a group fitness class at Circuit Works LA.
Show up early
Arriving early to attend your first fitness class is a great way to get a feel for the environment, instructor, and other participants.
If you’re in an unfamiliar gym, giving yourself time to get your equipment set up will be particularly important as you need to find out where everything is located and what it looks like before class starts. We suggest that you arrive 5-10 minutes early so that we can show you around and introduce you to our HIIT trainers.
Arriving early also allows you to get yourself ready mentally and physically. Before jumping right into things, allow yourself some time to mentally prepare yourself. A few minutes spent on deep breathing exercises or mental preparation will go a long way toward helping you feel more confident when exercising in a group setting. Physically preparing yourself means warming up so that your body is ready for exercise—think stretching and light jogging if possible.
Do your research
Unless you’re open to participating in any style of fitness class, it will be beneficial for you to read the description of the class that you are looking to attend prior to booking. If you need any clarification or have questions, it is always a good idea to call the studio that way you know what you are signing up for. At Circuit Works LA, we have each class description available by clicking on the class that you are interested in so that you can decide which class (and class time) is best for you.
Another method of obtaining more information on the type of classes available is to research the classes online and watch video examples for each (for example, the difference between an advanced and beginner HIIT workout). Even though everyone runs their class in their own way, this is a useful way to get an idea of the workout prior to stepping foot in the gym.
Wear comfortable clothes
When you are getting dressed to go to your first group fitness class, it’s important to wear clothes that allow you to feel comfortable and to move without restriction. High-intensity workouts involve a lot of movement and sweating (even beginner HIIT workout classes are quite intense). Whether you decide on leggings, shorts, a tank, or a t-shirt – wear something that fits your body but also allows it to breathe. It would also be helpful for you to pair your outfit with a pair of supportive shoes with plenty of bounce and comfort.
Introduce yourself to the instructor
Once you arrive at the fitness studio (a few minutes before class begins), introduce yourself to the instructor leading the class. If you’re not sure who that is, don’t worry. As we mentioned earlier, when you sign in at the front desk we will let you know who your instructor is and introduce you to them.
At Circuit Works LA, we provide support and guidance every step of the way during a fitness class. To get the best out of a class, meet with the trainer leading the class beforehand to let them know if you have any injuries, movement concerns, and the level of challenge you are seeking. Our HIIT trainers will be happy to provide you with any necessary modifications to best suit your needs.
Stay hydrated
Come prepared to the studio with a full bottle of water to keep you hydrated. Water not only regulates your body’s temperature and protects vital organs but the hydration that it provides is critical to your well-being. This is especially important during a high-intensity workout. According to the American Council on Exercise, it’s beneficial to utilize the following recommendations in order to maintain optimal hydration during your workout:
Pre-workout
Drink 17 to 20 fl oz of water two to three hours before exercise
Drink 8 fl oz of fluid 20 to 30 minutes before exercise
During your workout
Drink 7 to 10 ounces of fluid every 10 to 20 minutes during exercise
Post-workout
Drink an additional 8 ounces of fluid 30 minutes after exercise
Drink 16 to 24 ounces of fluid for every pound of body weight lost during exercise
Whether you’ve never set foot in a group fitness class before or it’s just been a while, it can be pretty intimidating. But don’t worry; follow the five tips that we shared today and have fun. Contact us to get started to purchase a class pass and come check out the new Circuit Works Santa Monica Location.
