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Group Exercise Class Etiquette

Jackie Wright / The Fitness Trail
Grand Lake, CO Colorado

Whether it is a small or large group exercise class setting, there are a number of etiquette guidelines to follow when attending these classes. This week we will highlight nine etiquette guidelines which will help you and those around you, enjoy every workout session. As always, prior to beginning any exercise program, please consult your physician.

Note: If you are a new participant, set up an orientation with the program director prior to beginning your first class. Share your personal expectations and any physical limitations (i.e. you should have completed a health history questionnaire prior to attending) with the director so that they may suggest the best fit for you.

9 Group Exercise Class Etiquette Guidelines



• Arrive Early! Depending upon the format of the class, you may need to arrive anywhere from 10-20 minutes early. Especially indoor group cycling class formats or any format which requires you to set up your own equipment, arriving early has a positive impact upon you and your class mates’ exercise experience. So, if the class time is 6:30 a.m., you will want to arrive by 6:10-6:15 a.m. to be ready to work promptly at 6:30 a.m.

• Additionally, if this is a well-attended class, you may need to arrive early just to secure a spot in class. For indoor group cycling classes, there may be a sign-in sheet, on a first come, first serve basis. Or, reservations may be taken for those formats, so make sure you are aware of these program requirements ahead of time.



• Turn off your cell phone completely.

• If you are new, introduce yourself to the instructor. This allows the instructor to meet you, find out a little bit about you and your capability level so they may address your needs during class. The instructor may suggest a specific spot for you to locate within the room so they may keep an eye on you to ensure your safety, fun and success during class.

• In general, locate yourself in the class so that you are able to hear and see effectively. If you feel you will be obstructed, ask the instructor for suggestions on relocation which may require reorganization of equipment and participants.

• Avoid chatting with those around you. As with any public speaking/performance situation, complete attention needs to be paid to the instructor so that everyone is able to hear and understand what is expected of them. This is a safety and effectiveness issue. Therefore, be a good patron and immerse yourself in the class experience and go for coffee afterward to chat.

• And, to that end also pay attention to the instructor’s class introduction and instructions. This is the time to ask any pertinent questions.

• With the exception of cycling classes, place your water and towel around the perimeter of the room so that you have access when needed, but no one will trip or fall accidentally.

• If you had difficulty with any aspect of the class, take a moment and chat with the instructor. Let them provide you with their valuable direction and suggestions so that future class experiences may be positive and successful.

Jackie Wright is the owner/manager of Never Summer Fitness, LLC located in Grand Lake, Colorado. She may be reached at her website at http://www.neversummerfitness.com, her email at NSFGL@comcast.net, her blog at http://www.skyhidailynews.com and her Facebook page at Never Summer Fitness.


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