Will paying more for a group class help me find workout buddies and be more accountable?

amandaeve

Last December I changed gyms. I love my new gym and it’s a lot more convenient than my old one. Still, I struggle making it a regular routine. I tend to be “on the wagon” eating and exercising how I want to for about 4 weeks, then falling “off” for a week or two before getting back on again. I am not getting seeing the results I hoped for and think better consistency might make a big impact. Also, other than this website, I don’t have any people in my life interested in fitness, nutrition, and health. I stayed more motivated in past years when I had a friend working out with me. I’ve put out Craig’s List ads and managed to get a work out buddy once, but they skipped out after a few months. I hoped to make friends at this club. While everyone is polite, people tend to keep to themselves, making it harder for a quiet person like me to reach out.
My gym is offering a promotion where I can join a group Lab for an additional fee and year-long commitment. The idea of being part of a group intrigues me. I wonder if it would help me make friends and add accountability. What do you guys think? If I join a class, am I more likely to be more accountable and would I have an easier time making friends? Or would I just pay more money and end up at the same place I am now?
I can observe the class from a glass wall now. It looks very intense, like a bootcamp/crossfit type setting. There are about 6-10 people per class and I have not seen anyone talking to each other.

mygrl4meee

I wouldn't want to commit to a class before trying it. Its possible you will go more since your paying. No way to say if you would get buddies. I have made one friend thru my fitness classes. We have ran a bit together but nothing on a regular basis. We do check in with each other and plan to run a half marathon together.

lorrpb

A class might help your accountability, but there's no guarantee about friends. Like you, a lot of people do keep to themselves. Chatting most likely occurs before or after class. Maybe you could plan a few questions to break the ice, like how long have you been coming here, what do you like best about this class, I'm new here and was wondering what helps you get the most out of class?