5 Reasons Why You Should Incorporate Group Fitness into Your Routine.

By Faralee Wilson, BA, CSEP-CPT, MFC Trainer/Evaluator/Instructor
Coordinator Fitness & Programs, Recreation Services at the University of Manitoba

– it is not just for women, and it’s not dancing around in spandex!

Unfortunately, Group Fitness is one of the MOST under-valued forms of fitness training when, in truth, it is one of the most effective and efficient ways to workout! Here are 5 reasons why you should consider adding group fitness to your weekly routine:

Why try a group fitness class? 

Time Efficient: Classes are typically 30, 45, and 60 minutes and available in the early morning, lunch hour, after work, evenings and on the weekends. You can choose classes that compliment your lifestyle, your goals and your schedule. A group fitness class is a great way to get the most ‘bang for your buck’, providing you with a safe and effective total body workout!

Challenging for all Levels: In group fitness, specific equipment is used to create workouts that cater to all levels from beginner to advanced. The classes provide options for each exercise to make it harder or easier, depending on your level of fitness.

Focused Workouts: There are many classes out there, so finding one tailored to your fitness needs will be simple! If you have lots of strength and can lift heavy objects but are lacking in the flexibility department – choose a yoga-inspired class. If you love endurance activities and run or bike regularly but are finding your power and strength need work – pick a HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) or a muscular strength focused class. The class instructors are there to guide your workouts and to teach you about the correct form when you are doing them.

Pro tip - look for Group Fitness classes run by certified fitness professionals. All UofM Rec Services' instructors are certified from an accredited organization, like the Manitoba Fitness Council or the Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology. 

Commitment and Structure: A group setting can inspire you to work harder, smarter, and regularly. It's like being on a team. Your effort can reflect that of those around you. The instructor can motivate you to push a bit harder or let you know when to dial it back. Classes can offer balanced workouts that take you through the essential components, including the warm-up, cool-down and stretch while challenging you safely and effectively. Group fitness takes the guesswork out of exercise and helps build a personal routine you can stick with.


Make New Friends and Have Fun: Take a friend to class, meet someone new or reconnect with someone you already know – group fitness is social by nature. Relationships are fostered when you chat before class starts; when you laugh, cheer or grunt during the workout; when you high five after class is done; or when you talk about the exercise on the way back to the change room. Chances are, you will see the same people in class each week, and you will likely run into them somewhere outside of the club. Plus, the music, group energy, and creative and varied moves the instructor will guide you through will make your workouts fun!

"This all sounds awesome, but where can I find some great group fitness classes to get started?" 

UofM Recreation Services has classes for everybody's fitness goals, levels, and interests. We offer cycling, circuit training, high-intensity interval, yoga, dance, muscular strength/endurance, and boxing classes.  We've also combined many class types to keep participants motivated, engaged and working towards their own fitness goals and – get this – it's included with your membership! Students, Staff, and Community members of Recreation Services can drop in on these classes at any time. No sign up required!

Check out our current Group Fitness schedule and join us for an excellent workout! Rec Services Group Fitness Schedule