I've been in this whole gym-scene for quite some time now. I've taught many classes -- hip hop, sculpt, cardio, spin, hiit, circuit, triple challenge, & muscleworks -- and I've taken even more. There is a clear distinction between a successful class and a class that everyone can't wait to get out of. Although each instructor is different, there are a few things that I know we wish you knew.
1. ENERGY. IS. EVERYTHING
Are you having fun? Do you want to be here with me? Am I doing a good job at keeping this class positive? These are questions that we all think, and when we can't read your facial expressions, we don't know what (if anything) to do differently. Don't just stare blankly ahead! Smile at me. Flail your arms. Woo for me. Count with me. Energy is contagious, and showing me that getting out of bed at 7 a.m. was worth it makes me work even harder.
2. I'M YOUR FRIEND
A lot of people tip-toe into class and stand in the back of the room, scared to approach me as if I'm some kind of alien. I'm not. I'm just the instructor. I'm here to lead you through an effective workout and make you laugh by muttering some fitness puns into my mic. I want to learn your name. I want you to stand up front. I want you to sing along to the music with me. Group fitness classes flourish when everyone in the room is united and working together. Let's all be friends.
3. THE COOL DOWN IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF THE WORKOUT
I can't stress this enough. The majority of classes that I teach are high intensity and require the body to work extra hard. After pushing your muscles to their limits, you need to cool down properly. This helps your body recover and reduces DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) that we all love to hate. I understand that some people have obligations that may make them cut out of class early, and I get that, but I also know that some people think that as soon as we put the weights down, class is over. Give your body that extra 5 minutes to decompress. Focus on your breathing and feel your muscles stretch. You deserve it.
4. GIVE ME FEEDBACK
Did you like the music I used? Was the workout too easy for you? Do you want to focus on any particular part of your body next week? Tell me. The classes I teach are for you. They are your classes. I love when my clients come up to me after class is over and give me suggestions for next time. Don't be afraid to give criticism (but please do so politely); it only helps me do my job better.
5. SPREAD THE WORD
Did you like my class? Bring your friend next time! Many gyms offer free guest passes so your friends and family can try out the various classes. The more people working out together, the merrier. A full room of sweaty people is one of the most satisfying things to be a part of.
Don't be afraid to get loud in class. Smile. Say hi. Make friends. Bring friends. Give feedback. Stretch. You are doing so much good to your body by attending a group fitness class, why not make the most out of it?
Interested in taking one of my classes? Shoot me an email for my schedule!
CharlotteSMuller@gmail.com
