How to Get the Most out of a Group Workout Class
Joining group fitness classes is one of the best things you can do to boost your health and fitness as an aspiring professional cheerleader. These classes also provide opportunities to socialize with like-minded individuals who can motivate you to stay on track with your goals. You’re able to hold yourself accountable.
If this is your first time to participate in a group workout, you might need some tips on how to make the most out of your group sweat sessions. Of course, it’s important that you are able to enjoy each class and stay safe! Keep reading.
Know your goals first.
Assuming that you are still in the process of deciding which class to join, make sure to identify your goals. Some fitness classes focus on cardiovascular workouts while others focus on strength-building and involve lifting weights. Whatever your goals are, keep in mind that just about any class can help you burn fat!
Find out if you need special gear.
Some fitness classes and studios require that you bring certain items with you during the workouts. For example, hand wraps and mini bands. Do your homework by checking out the studio’s website or simply calling the studio.
Don’t hide in the back of the room.
You might be nervous and think of going incognito, but believe me, it’s not the best way to calm yourself and learn. The closer you are to the instructor and the mirror, the better!
Inform the instructor of your past injuries.
If you got injured in the past, be sure to let the group fitness class instructor know about it. The reason is that there might be certain movements that will trigger the injury and end up hurting you. By telling your instructor, he or she will be able to modify the workout in a way that helps you. Remember, exercise safety is a priority.
Listen to your body!
A lot of newbies push themselves too hard by trying to do all the exercises that everyone is doing. A movement can take weeks or months to master, so don’t expect yourself to perfect something on the first attempt. If a class makes your body too sore and you don’t feel your best the following day, it means that you’ve pushed yourself too hard. Consider asking the instructor about modifications for a certain movement. Focus on doing your best based on your skill level. Avoid comparing yourself to others.
Stay fully focused.
When you walk into a class, always have a clear mental picture of what you want to achieve at the end of the class. Having a game plan will help you move with purpose. Don’t get distracted by others or your mobile phone - put it on an airplane mode.
Maintain good form.
Please keep in mind that the instructor won’t always be able to catch form mistakes, so you have to pay attention to your form at all times. Research the various exercises performed in the studio or class and how to perform each exercise correctly. Always engage your abdominal muscles, keep your back straight and shoulders relaxed, and don’t forget to breathe.
Need a Great Workout Routine for Your Pro Cheer Audition Prep?
Pro cheerleaders stay fit, flexible, and strong so they can give out their best performance in the arena. However, achieving that wow-worthy, toned physique doesn’t happen overnight. You need to arm yourself with the right daily workouts.
Thinking of becoming a pro cheerleader?
We are offering you our fun, FREE (for a LIMITED time) POM FIT™ INTRO CLASS that teaches you beginner-friendly cardio moves.
To take your cheerleading fitness to the next level, we also have POM FIT™: GAMEDAY1™ - a series of challenging full-body cardio classes that include a body stretch class, kick stretch class, abdominal workout class, and more.
Join a POM FIT™ class below:
POM FIT™ INTRO CLASS (Free for a LIMITED time)
POM FIT™: GAMEDAY1™ (USD 27.00)
