Fitness is a solo pursuit for many people who enjoy spending time alone to unwind, get in the zone, and better themselves.
While that is undoubtedly a great way to approach exercise, guidance also plays a role. Having a good coach can teach you proper form, keep you accountable, and help you make quicker progress with your training.
The question is, should you go with personal training or leverage small group training. Let’s discuss.
The Benefits of Personal Training
A significant problem we face today is the literal sea of information on every subject imaginable. While useful in some ways, too much information can overwhelm us.
Most beginners struggle to make any fitness progress, not because they don’t work hard, but because they don’t know what tactics to use. The most notable benefit of personal training is learning what works and what doesn’t. Instead of spending months, even years, chasing the wrong tactics, you learn what matters and what doesn’t.
Personal training is also beneficial because you get personalized attention from an expert. You can ask questions, resolve issues effectively, learn proper training form, and more. In many cases, personal trainers can also give you pointers for improving your nutrition and ideas for habits to develop.
Other underrated benefits of working with a personal trainer are accountability and motivation. You might not always feel like showing up, but you will because your trainer will expect you to.
The Advantages of Small Group Fitness Classes
Similar to personal training, attending small group fitness classes offers numerous benefits. As with personal training, the group coach teaches you proper form, which is vital for safe and effective training. You can also discuss ideas and understand what works and what ideas to avoid.
Accountability and motivation are also present because other people expect you to show up, and you’re more likely to be consistent, even during periods when you don’t feel like exercising.
Group fitness classes are also great because you don’t have to worry about workout structure, how hard to push yourself, and other similar details. You have a coach who thinks about all of that for you, and the only thing you need to worry about is showing up and doing the work.
Which One Should You Go With?
Personal training and small group fitness classes offer many of the same benefits, and you can pick the one that feels most natural to you. For example, if you’re anxious to exercise in front of others, go with personal training. The environment is less stressful, your coach complies with your abilities and learning speed, and you get more attention, leading to quicker learning.
In contrast, group fitness classes are helpful for those who enjoy the environment and want to be part of a group that works hard to improve. Group fitness classes can be motivating, and you still get to learn many essential things about proper training, nutrition, and recovery. The only downside is that you don’t get as much personalized attention, and it might take longer to grasp new concepts.
