First – motivation
Man is a social creature. In the world of sports, the presence of other people encourages greater effort. Whether it’s the spectators in the stands in professional sports, the coach encouraging you to do one more repetition, or your friends doing a crossfit circuit with you, the group always creates a motivating atmosphere.
The basis for this is the social facilitation effect, which helps us perform more effectively on tasks of minor complexity or those we already have a good grasp of, which include the vast majority of basic exercises we encounter during group training.
Of course, there is also the other side of the coin – too high a level of group classes can make it much more difficult for us to exercise than if we tried to do it individually. Therefore, it is worth finding out whether the group we are going to join is too advanced for our current capabilities.
Second – supervision
Group classes usually take place under the guidance of an instructor. A professional trainer will match the intensity level of the class to the capabilities of the group, ensure that the time is well used, and will not forget to conduct a proper warm-up. They will also keep an eye on proper exercise technique, present new movement patterns, and add variety to training. You will know a good trainer by their ability to combine high expectations with an interesting class setting – that is why group classes led by top professionals are always very popular.
The problem with group classes is that even an outstanding trainer cannot devote too much time to each participant. Individual training will therefore be a better choice if you are concerned about achieving your own sports goals or working on your exercise technique. Remember, however, that even minimal supervision from a trainer in a group is better than training on your own on a trial and error basis – especially for beginners.
Third – accessibility
Organised group workouts are available in the offerings of almost every fitness club. Participation in most classes does not require a surcharge on a club card or subscription, and the workouts themselves are available at convenient times, with a low “barrier to entry”. You also generally don’t have to worry about the equipment, because the club provides it (with a few exceptions, such as yoga mats). In most cases, sportswear is sufficient. The level of the classes is tailored to the gender, age and physical capabilities of the participants, so there is something for everyone.
It can be a bit of a challenge to find a group that fully matches your ambitions, goals, capabilities and... style. Tastes vary, as do groups and trainers. So it’s worth spending a little more time researching to find an activity and a place you will be happy to return to.
Fourth – inspiration
The presence of others not only motivates people to work harder, but also encourages the exchange of all kinds of views, opinions and experiences. You think you will have nothing to talk about with the people you meet at the fitness club? All it takes is one hard workout to find a topic of conversation – and this is just the beginning!
The training group is also an invaluable source of information about the sport and all that it entails. The technique, diet, equipment, “for the advanced only” classes, new ways to spend time actively... Training together is an endless source of inspiration! Healthy competition also allows you to get to know yourself better and work on your own character.
Fifth – commitment
Participation in group training always represents a commitment – to oneself, the trainer or the other members of the group. This increases your motivation level and helps you exercise regularly and systematically. Group training rarely ends with a single class – once you decide on something, try it out and find that you like the class, you are unlikely to look for excuses from participating in training.
What is more, some clubs apply greater or lesser “sanctions” to those who do not show up regularly for classes or block other participants from signing up, and this can further support regularity in training.
In conclusion, group training is not just about classes. It is an adventure experienced in good company – see for yourself!
References:
- Strauss B., Social facilitation in motor tasks: a review of research and theory, Psychology of Sports and Exercise, 2002.
- Graydon J., Murphy T., The effect of personality on social facilitation whilst performing a sports related task, Personality and Individual Differences, 1995.
- Graupensperger S., Gotschall J. S., Benson A. J. et al, Perceptions of groupness during fitness classes positively predict recalled perceptions of exertion, enjoyment, and affective valence: An intensive longitudinal investigation, Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychology, 2019.