Physical activity has been referred to as a means to achieving a healthy lifestyle. Group fitness classes provide instruction and motivation in a variety of activities. Some classes focus on one specific type of workout, while others consist of different workouts in one session. While classes may vary in activity, the various segments of all classes follow a similar format.
Significance
No matter what workout or routine the class consists of, all classes need to start with a warm-up. The purpose of the warm-up is to prepare your body for the upcoming activity. The cardiovascular warm-up gradually increases heart rate and oxygen supply to the muscles for the increased demand of an exercise class. The musculoskeletal warm-up generates heat to the working muscles and mimics the movements needed to perform the workout. After the warm-up, the peak part of the class provides a workout geared to specific fitness improvements. Finally, the cool-down section gradually reduces the intensity of the workout, aiding in recovery, reduced soreness and injury prevention.
Types
The type of exercise class is based on the goals or outcomes desired. Cardio classes improve the function of your heart and lungs to provide blood and oxygen to the body for the upcoming workout. Cardio classes consist of continuous movement specifically for the lower body. Aerobics, step and kick-boxing are examples of cardio classes. Body-toning classes target specific muscle groups for the purpose of firming and toning. Examples of body-toning classes include abdominal exercises, buttock exercises, hip and thigh exercises with or without added resistance such as free weights or resistance bands. Flexibility classes are for improving the range of motion of your joints through stretching movements and calisthenic-type movements. Additional goals include increased strength and endurance, along with improved breathing techniques. Examples include yoga and Pilates.
Benefits
Exercise enthusiasts can choose to work out in a group or a private setting. There are several benefits of working out in a group setting. For beginners, group classes feature a knowledgeable instructor who assists class participants with proper form and technique. Effective exercises are selected for specific fitness goals. The proper amount of sets and repetitions for results are also included in group workouts. Motivation to continue and complete the entire workout is also offered. Routines are usually completed using motivating music to help push participants.
Time Frame
Total workout time for exercise routines typically range between 30 and 90 minutes. Body-toning classes range between 30 to 60 minutes based on the number of body parts worked in the class. Yoga and Pilates classes generally range between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on whether or not meditation is included in the routine. Cardio classes range between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on the level of the class participants. Some classes combine various workouts. For example, cardio routines may also include a body-toning section at the end. Beginner classes may be shorter in duration compared to intermediate or advanced classes.
Warning
First-time participants should seek physician's clearance prior to participating in group exercise classes. Beginner classes are for beginners, and advanced classes are for those who have achieved a certain level of fitness. Beginner-level participants should not take classes that are classified as advanced. There is a chance of injury for any person in any class. However, your chance of injury is increased if you take an advanced class before you achieve an advanced level of fitness.
References
- "Keep Moving: Fitness Through Aerobics and Step"; Esther Pryor and Minda Goodman Kraines; 2000
- Exercise Guides: Warmup/Cardio (Aerobics)
- Toning Workout Routines: What's in them for You?
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