Question on Group Classes

[mbmundt]

I'm a personal trainer and will be teaching two classes starting in May. One is a general shape up class that incorporates Low Impact Intervals to general toning. Along the lines of Super Cuts or XTrain with a little more cardio. Or like a longer version of X10 Low Impact. My other class will be boxing/kickboxing. The layout of the class is entirely up to me. The place I'm doing this through sets up either 3-4 bouts then a week break and then starts in again. My question is would it be better to keep the class the same for the 3-4 weeks and then change it up a little the next 3-4 weeks. My initial thought was to keep it the same for a while so the people get used to what they are doing to get more out of the workout each time they come.

I look forward to your input.

Brenda

 

[jamie vaughn]

Hi Brenda,
That's hard to say. Is each class only once per week? Besides working out at home I also attend circuit classes 3 times/ week at a local gym - I love it as it's small classes with max of 8 people, but I also love the fact that it's different every time and I'm always surprised when I'm sore in odd places - but a good sore. I guess it may depend on how new the attendees are to fitness as well and if they require more basic moves just to get the proper form down. But then if they dislike the first class and know the set up is the same for future classes they may not come back. Personally my gym is extremely expensive so if I'm not challenged I will not keep paying when I can get a better workout at home. Maybe keep the structure the same, ie abs/ upper/ lower with cardio bursts in between, but maybe have some classes that are more bodyweight moves or incorporate various types of equipment like gliding discs just to alter the effect of similar moves. One of the hardest circuit classes I did was all bodyweight/ plyo done as an AMRAP and I was fried LOL! On the other hand boxing/ kickboxing I personally would not do well if it changed significantly each class and had choreography to remember - but that's just me.
I hope I made sense??
Jamie

 

[mbmundt]

Hi Jamie,

Yes you made sense. Each class is once a week. Me personally, I like variety. In my own workouts, I always change things up.

I do agree with you on the boxing/kickboxing one.

Thanks for your input.

Brenda

 

[JeanneMarie]

I am like Jamie.... I work out at home and attend interval circuit classes at a local gym. I go to those about 4 or 5 days a week. I love it when they change it up. If I do the same thing over and over, my body adapts and I don't get nearly as much out of them. We have people with varying levels of fitness participating, but what the instructor tells people is to just modify. Use a lighter weight, do the move slower, do less reps.... that way everybody can ramp it up or down, depending on their needs.

Nobody seems to have any problem learning new moves when she introduces them. Interestingly enough, at 58 years old I am probably the fittest in the class and the most able to do anything she puts into the class because I've done it all for years.... with Cathe of course!