beginner-appropriate group fitness class

s0987
s0987 Posts: 22 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
The journey is just starting so I'm not in the shape to do an intense class but I would like the community of a group exercise class and to do something besides walking to drop some pounds. What in your experience is a good class for a beginner?

Replies

  • robininfl
    robininfl Posts: 1,137 Member
    Jazzercise is fun and in my experience not cliquey or pushy.
    We get absolute beginners in yoga, too - I am sure it depends on the studio but mine is not at all intimidating.
    YMCAs usually have aerobics classes, and at least here the recreation department runs some.

    Good luck and congratulations on your start!
  • chocolate_owl
    chocolate_owl Posts: 1,695 Member
    All of the classes at my gym are appropriate for beginners, but some will be more comfortable than others.

    Cardio:
    Cycle - the ultimate beginner's class. Low impact, set your own intensity, take breaks and jump back in as you need it, no potential for embarrassing movement.
    Zumba or Cardio Dance Party - lower intensity, good if you enjoy dancing, easy to stand in the back until you gain confidence
    TurboKick - higher intensity, but can be modified to lower intensity. Talk with the instructor about modifications. You need to stick this one out for a few weeks; most people have probably been doing the class a while and have the format/moves memorized. Don't be freaked out or discouraged if you can't keep up at first.
    Body Combat - Another cardio kickboxing class, but less, uh, spastic than Turbokick. More focus on kicks and punches, less on jumps and bobbing about.

    Strength:
    Body Pump - Decent beginner strength training class. High reps, low weight, start at what's doable for you. You'll learn a bunch of different lifts. The dangerous part here is there's no way for the instructor to check everyone's form, so before you start you may want to talk with the instructor about the right way and wrong way to do things. Better yet, skip this class and get in the weights section of the gym ;)
    Pilates - This is a great way to gain some strength without weights. It is a lot of mat work. If you're worried about your mobility getting up and down and around on the floor, try a couple of YouTube videos at home first.
    Yoga - Similar benefits/concerns as pilates, bonus of meditation and flexibility.

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