For lots of us just joining up with a local gym, cryptic slogans meet us at the door.  Spin class.  Go-Punching.  Step Stride.

We figure out that these are names for groups classes, which we're often cordially invited to.  So do we go?

Well, that all depends.  Some people are geared toward group classes, and some aren't.  But, for many new to workouts who crave socialization along with their new routines, a group class is just the thing to boost their chances of "gym recidivism" and keep them coming back for better health long term.

When it comes to group classes, not all of them are created equal.  A group class has a "recipe", or should I say, a formula, that defines its results.

First, a group class has to match the individual's workout needs and abilities.  Skillful instructors can tailor a class to a wide range of individuals, to an extent, but that still doesn't mean the newbie on the bike is going to want to do high RPMs along with the Tour de France fan, or that people in a "bunny slope" class are going to do the amped-up routines an instructor might be used to teaching.

But there are also other factors that make a group class great, that add to a winning formula.

Some are cosmetic: attention to lighting, spacing and music are crucial.  A good instructor brings his or her own style to a space, and more than that, keeps it consistent, so that the returning group members get a real sense of what they are doing over time.

Then there's content.

Some classes are what we might call "freestyle" - an instructor comes in with a set of activities he or she thought up, and puts the group through their paces.  But though some of us might be big fans of originality, others might notice that this doesn't necessarily give us the best well-rounded routine, especially if the instructor seems fixated on his or her favorite stuff.

Another option is to go with "pre-programmed" classes.  These are more structured classes that could have a "syllabus" component.  They include rotations of activities that help provide some definition to the class.  

And besides these, even more style differences make classes different.  For example, if there is music, it will be either free-flowing from a single CD or the radio, or it will have the digital spacing or separate mp3 tracks.  Think about whether this will have an impact on your ability to follow through on transitions.

All of these effect what a class might be like, so if you're still squinting at the monthly calendar on the gym wall, bring some of your own analysis to the table and try out a group class with a critical eye.  If you don't like it, move on to the next one.  When you find one you like, stay there.  And if you think a group instructor may need some input, there's nothing wrong with a little constructive suggestion.  Although the instructor is always in charge (always remember that while the class is in session!), it's up to everyone involved to make the "fun formula" of group classes as good as it can be!