Gym Class Vs. Solo Gym sessions

TheLifeDetoxer

So after being at the gym for a few weeks, I plucked up the courage to go to a class.

Was feeling confident when I walked in but after 10mins (barely the warm up) I was dead!!!

Stuck it out for the 45 mins but it was very obvious I was the worst in the class

Confidence has taking a bit of a knock as didn't realise I was that bad!!!

My goal was to do a class once a week, but now wondering if I should do solo gym until I get a bit fitter

What's everyone's experiences of groups gym classes?

playmadcats

That was so me in both spin and circuit classes! Kept with both and I now find spin moderately easy. Although I feel worn out after circuits I can finish the class and am probably half way up performance wise if I compare myself with others.
If you enjoyed the class and it's your performance why not stick with it. Everyone in there was new at one point, you can always use the gym on your own as well. The class will be a good gauge on how your improving. However if you didn't like it maybe try something different or drop it.

LazSommer

Everyone there went through the same thing at one point. I worked out solo for a long time and went to the work gym to try out the sled with my buddy when the trainer brought it in. I puked at the end, outside, in front of my entire building as dozens of people walked by to start their work day. Still had fun, who cares what other people see.

That being said, don't skip your cardio kids.

Krismarie247

Reminds me of the first time I ever took a Bikram's hot yoga class. I had to sit down several times because I thought I'd pass out. At the end, the instructor announced I had made it through my first class (barely, IMHO!) and everyone clapped. Lol.

I think people have been there and no one's judging. Even if they are, who cares? If you like the class, keep going. You'll get better at that class by doing the class, not other workouts. Have fun!

Therealobi1

Who cares if you were the worst in the class, you finished the class so should be proud. I have seen people bail on a spin class as it can be really tough
I say keep at it and soon you will surprise yourself, good luck

roobar323

Fitness instructors are, in general, sadists.
In about 9 months I've gone from barely surviving a warm up to changing instructors because the old ones classes weren't pushing me enough. As a friend says repeatedly on tough bike rides a "we're not here for a haircut."
If you're feeling unmotivated you won't be pushing yourself solo and you won't get fitter or stronger. Find a class or instructor you like and enjoy and stick to it. It gets easier.
The sadist at the front has to challenge people who have been doing it for years and people who have just walked in the door. They are trying to strike a balance. If you bail after 10 reps instead of 20, they should ask you the question, and try and get one or two more, but not make it a huge thing in front of the class.
I find classes better than solo, although virtual classes with computer controlled trainers (kickr on the bike or similar treadmills) are a great alternative, not so good for strength though.

lorrpb

Work on pacing yourself & ask instructor for modifications. Focus on what YOU'RE doing, more so than others. You're doing better than all the people who didn't come! Fitness classes are geared to challenge the super-fit, not to build the confidence of newbies. Unfortunately.

cwolfman13

Just go to the class...the purpose of the class is to improve your fitness...you don't have to be already fit to do the class.

Joanna2012B

You finished it...good for you!! If you liked it stick with it! I love when new people come to class and I get to see them get stronger each week! It is exciting and always reminds me where I was once! We all started where you are!!! There are always modifications to every exercise, don't be afraid to ask for it!! Work hard and have fun doing it!!!!

Xxlune

I just started a martial arts class, and it is kicking my butt. I haven't worked out in YEARS and am obviously the worst and the slowest in the class. Making it worse: we do everything in 'lines' so they have to wait for me to finish my round, which I found very embarrassing at first. But to be honest, when I spoke to the other people there, they were all SO supportive! No one minds you, aside from trying to help you with your exercise, and I have had a great experience so far. My plan was to go only once a week, but I am now catching myself going twice a week so I won't miss a class
Conclusion: just go. It won't be as bad anymore in a few classes!

MelodyandBarbells

I was like you my first few classes. Only, I actually left after five / ten minutes. Even with modifications, it was so hard! However, the only reason to stay gone is that you absolutely detest the class. If you like it, please keep coming. Especially if the classes are not super full, most instructors are actually extremely excited to have a new regular. You're making someone's day AND getting fitter. Keep going!

TheLifeDetoxer

Thanks guys, always good to remind yourself that people have been in the same boat! Have booked myself in for a body pump class tomorrow... Will let you know how it goes

middlehaitch

Oh my! Every time I start a new class I think I am about to die.
What I did learn after my first experience was to go early introduce myself to the instructor and explain that this is a new experience and if I sit out part of it not to worry, I will work my way up to completing the class. I always take the lower impact option too.

I find nearly all class mates are very supportive. I went white and almost passes out my first Zumba class. A woman at the back spotted my face change as it happened and was by my side sending someone for water and lowering me to the floor. 10 min later I was up and back at it but taking it slowly. The support everyone showed that day had me going back for 2 years. I got pretty good at it and it was a heck of a lot of fun.

Keep going back if you like the class. I like a class for my cardio days but lift on my own.

Cheers, h.

maryann9wood

Body Pump is my favorite class to take! I often talk to people who are new in the class. I always suggest using VERY LIGHT weights - even lower than the instructor suggests, especially for people who are over 30. If you are not exhausted and sore after one class, go ahead and increase your weights the next time you take the class. Even an empty bar will help you use correct form - and may be heavier than you think by 80-90 reps.

feisty_bucket

Feel free to ignore the instructor's pacing. Consider it a "suggestion". They're going for a class average, but only you know your capabilities so adjust as you see fit.

TheLifeDetoxer

maryann9wood wrote: »

Body Pump is my favorite class to take! I often talk to people who are new in the class. I always suggest using VERY LIGHT weights - even lower than the instructor suggests, especially for people who are over 30. If you are not exhausted and sore after one class, go ahead and increase your weights the next time you take the class. Even an empty bar will help you use correct form - and may be heavier than you think by 80-90 reps.

I just finished body pump! It was brilliant!!!! Did what you suggested and had a lower weight, arrived early and started chatting to a girl who was new too. So we chummed each other along... So glad I went can't wait till the next one