If you’ve been avoiding any of FitClub’s group exercise classes because you think it may be too hard, you’re not alone. It’s normal to feel anxiety or even fear when you step outside your comfort zone and try something new and challenging for the first time. Pushing yourself and trying new workouts, though, is the best way to get in even better shape. Group fitness classes aren’t only for the fittest FitClub members. If fear is holding you back, FitClub has a few tricks for jumping in and finishing that challenging class.
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Show up early. If it’s your first time or you’re worried about your limitations, arriving early enough to arrange your space, get comfortable and introduce yourself to the instructor ensures that you’ll feel more comfortable. Instead of sneaking in at the last minute or intentionally arriving late, give yourself a few minutes prior to class to acquaint yourself with the room, the equipment and the instructor. If you have any limitations, questions, or fears let the instructor know so that he or she can make sure you have what you need to get started.
Slow down. If you’re in a group exercise class and feeling like you’ll never survive the entire hour, simply slow down and focus on your form. Most FitClub group exercise classes are generally done at your own pace and your own fitness level. If you need to slow down the pushups, no one will notice. Your form is more important than risking injury just to keep up with the person beside you.
Focus on yourself. No one is counting your reps. If you’re pushing yourself and need to back off for a moment to catch your breath, no one will notice. Not pedaling at the same speed or resistance as your friend in the CycleFit? That’s okay. The fear that we can’t keep up in a group fitness class should never be a reason we don’t try. The only way to get fitter, faster, and stronger is to keep trying, keep challenging yourself, and to keep your mind on what your body can do, rather than trying to keep up.
Try to keep moving. Even if you need to slow down or switch to lighter weights, try to keep moving unless you feel sick or dizzy. Your body will only adapt to the work load you’re willing to give it. If you can do a few reps without the weights or keep going while moving a bit slower, just keep moving.
Think about your effort. There is likely to be something in every new class that you’ve never done before. That’s how our bodies break through plateaus and continue to adapt to more demands. Rather than worrying that you might be less than perfect, focus on your effort. Are you working as hard as you can? Could you try harder? When you’re trying, you’re learning and with each try you’ll get stronger, faster, and fitter.
Have you experienced fear when you’ve tried a new class for the first time?
