It has been said, if you ever want to get anything accomplished, don’t give it to a group to work on. Well, there’s some truth to that. In most respects, everyone in a group seems to have their own opinions on how things should be done—and usually their opinions are all different. And so, as a result, nothing of any consequence gets done.

But, on the other hand, for all you individualists out there who think that if you want to get something done, you have to do it yourself—we’ve got news for you. It’s also been said, “there’s strength in numbers.” And there’s one kind of group that gets a lot done, more than you can do by yourself— and that’s an exercise group.

Something happens when people work within exercise groups. It seems to bring out the best in them. Those that have always needed support in the past, for one reason or another-- now become the supporters. They don’t want to let their partner down or disappoint the group. The failure of a member is a failure for the entire group. And when one makes a breakthrough or reaches a goal in an exercise, it’s a win for everyone.

Group exercise classes, if done right, meet the needs of every participating member in the group. Ideally, there’s a diversified list of class types to choose from, with several different skill or ability levels. Most are broken down to beginners, intermediate and advanced levels.

Some of the more popular group exercise classes are: pilates, aerobic training, water aerobics, calisthenics, yoga, muscle building with weight resistance and endurance, joint mobility and flexibility, rehabilitation from injuries and operations, the mind’s influence over the body phenomena, and the many forms of martial arts and dance.

Even though these exercises are done as a group, that alone does not make them more beneficial than one-on-one training. There are two conditions that almost guarantee group  success. Successful groups are those of a manageable size that can give individualized attention and instruction to their members. And, a group is only as beneficial as its member’s abilities to be coached and its leader’s abilities to instruct.

When those conditions occur, your group members will exercise with proper instructions, effectively and safely. With a new discipline and structure, they will become more responsible in all areas of their lives. They will be more caring and more cared for.

They will be motivated and acknowledged for reaching their goals, not only by their instructor, but also by other members of the group. And with this kind of camaraderie and support-- it will truly be a rewarding experience for all.

by Bruce Heath, DnC.