5 Mental Health Benefits of Group Fitness Classes

It is true that there is strength in numbers. Studies have shown that group workouts can reduce stress and improve quality of living more than individual workouts.

There’s a reason why so many Life Time members choose group classes as their primary way to work out each week. Life Time members are choosing group classes over other workout options.

Marcus Fitts is a group fitness coach and instructor at Life Time Atlanta, Ga. He has experienced first-hand the benefits of community exercise. “Taking and instructing group fitness classes at Life Time definitely helped my mental and emotional health, especially in terms of feeling like part of a team and being consistent with my workouts.”

[ruby_related heading=”More Read” total=3 layout=1 offset=5]

The physical benefits of exercising are well-known, but the mental and psychological benefits of participating in a class or working out with a group should also be lauded. Pitt and Fitts discuss some of the positive effects they see as they perform in class, as well what they hear from Life Time Members.

1. “A sense community.”

Pitt and Fitts both appreciate the sense of community that they feel within their classes.

Pitt says, “I enjoy it when students arrive early for class and stay later to talk to their classmates.” “These connections are what keeps people coming back.” Many people, particularly those who work from home, find that the group fitness setting gives them a chance to interact, smile, make eye-contact, and feel part of something. This gives people an energy boost that they can carry with them throughout the day.

Fitts stresses that classes can be a great way to connect with others, especially those who are feeling lonely or isolated. Fitts says that as an extrovert it is important to her to be part of a community which motivates her to lead a healthier lifestyle, not only on the surface but also inside. “Life Time” is that community. I acknowledge and encourage everyone in class, to let them all know that we are all in this together.

2. “Movement Without the Mental Load.”

It is easier to design your own exercise routine than it is to have to pick your daily workout.

Pitt says that the instructor will design the class and lead the exercises. All you need to do is turn up and follow along. It takes away a lot the stress of making decisions and having someone tell you what to. This is a great way to relieve stress, especially for people who have to make many decisions every day and are under pressure in their career or personal life.

3. Check in with yourself.

The instructors of Life Time classes often encourage participants to be aware of their bodies and minds, whether they are focusing on a difficult movement or enjoying some quiet meditation.

Pitt says that in his MB360 classes, “we challenge the mind by using breathwork and meditation, as well intentional movements.” “Members leave feeling more centered, and that they have taken care of both their body and mind.”

She adds, “I often ask my students to let me know how they are feeling at the beginning and end of class.” The energy and positivity on their faces has increased! Challenging yourself with difficult movements and patterns can make you feel triumphant. This type of achievement doesn’t happen often in everyday life. It is powerful to feel good about yourself and then spread that positivity on to others.

4. A safe place to jam out with music.

The power of music alone is to reduce stress and improve mood . Combine that with the benefits provided by movement and you have 45-60 minutes of positive vibes.

Fitts says that music is an universal language. “Music boosts my mood and it’s one of my favorites,” he adds. When you hear your favourite song in class, you may want to continue, go faster, or push yourself harder. It’s a great mood booster, and I love seeing the members’ faces as they move to the music. “I always try to provide the best music for my classes.”

Pitt also agrees that there is something magical about dancing to the music. Pitt says that members tell him that they are so glad they decided to attend class on that particular day as soon as they hear the music. When I teach LIFT barbell strength and LIFE BarRE Fusion, all of the exercises are choreographed to the beat. It’s hard to beat the feeling of everyone moving together in class — the lights flash, the music pumps, and the energy is high.

5. Encouragement and consistency bring results.

Group classes, unlike individual classes, usually require a reservation or scheduling. This creates accountability, and can lead more consistently to workouts.

Fitts says that consistency is the key to achieving results. Group fitness classes are a great way to improve your consistency and commitment. It’s the best way to boost confidence when my students see the results of their workouts. “Another bonus is that showing up to class consistently adds structure and disciplines to our daily life, which can improve our mental health because each day feels as if it’s an accomplishment.”