Group training is a great way to get moving. With so many group training classes to pick from, there’s one that’s perfect for where you’re at right now.
There are classes for beginners and all ages, abilities and body shapes. You can try a circuit, weights training, cardio, dance, aerobics, fitness boxing and more.
On this page we look at:
- This Girl Can Ambassador Natasha’s story about realising how many more reasons there are to get active than how your body looks
- What do you do in group training
- Physical and mental benefits of group training
- How to find group training classes near you
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Natasha found getting active doesn’t matter what you look like, it’s about how you feel
Every time she gets active, body-positive personal trainer Natasha is blown away by how great she feels. “There are 100 reasons to exercise and trying to look a certain way doesn’t have to be one of them.” Natasha once had doubts about running a fitness class because of how her body looks. Now as a personal trainer, Natasha says her body is a “bloody brilliant business card…definitely not flawless, but it’s perfect because it’s imperfect.”
What group training includes
Group fitness and group training refers to classes that are held with a group of people, all working out together. This can be anywhere from a couple of people to a few dozen , depending on the class.
Group training comes in many forms. Here are some types of group exercise:
- Functional circuit classes, where you perform different moves at a variety of stations with a time limit on each one, before moving to the next one
- Cycling classes, where the group uses stationary bikes and rides along with the trainer at the front
- Aerobics classes, which include a variety of aerobic moves, sometimes with equipment
- Strength classes, where you lift light weights to the beat of the music
The trainers in these classes are very welcoming and supportive, and most (if not all) classes can be done by beginners too. If it’s your first time, don’t worry – just let the trainer know and they’ll take care of you.
The benefits of group exercise for women
There is so much positive energy in group training sessions, which can really boost your motivation and makes classes a lot of fun. There are many other great benefits of group exercise, including:
- Support and encouragement from a group of women
- Extra accountability – it’s great inspiration to work for that one extra minute!
- Fitness trainers by your side that can help with your technique
- Variety with your workouts – most gyms offer a broad class timetable, so you can try lots of different things and see what you like most
- A social community of women to catch up with afterwards for a coffee
This is all before all of the health and mental benefits of group exercise and getting more movement in your day. If you love being active with others, group training could be for you!
Finding women’s group fitness classes near you
Group training is offered at many fitness facilities around Melbourne and regional Victoria, so you won’t have to look far to find one you like. Here’s where you can find a group fitness class near you.
Your local gym
Most gyms have group fitness classes that you can try, with some offering more than others. It’s a good idea to look at the class timetable ahead of time and ask the gym what each class is all about.
YMCA Victoria is a great place to look for a women’s group training gym in your area. You can also contact your local council to learn more about nearby facilities. There may also be a women’s only gym near you which can be a comfortable place to get started or return after a break.
Fitness studios
There are a wide range of general and specialist fitness studios around which all run different types of classes. If you already know what you’d like to try, for example yoga, pilates or fitness boxing, you can try a fitness studio that offers it. If you’re unsure about the suitability of a class for your age or ability level, the best thing to do is ask.
Bootcamps and private group training
Personal trainers and mobile bootcamps can be run in fitness studios or parks, and also online via video call. They can be more casual than classes at a gym, and you can find a group training community that suits your needs.
Getting started with group training
- Visit the website mentioned on this page: YMCA Victoria.
- Google it! Group training is all about personal preference, and there are many variations around. Check out a few online, make a list, and do a trial at each one to find out what you enjoy most.
- Find a Supporter in your neighbourhood, to see if a group training studio has registered online to support This Girl Can – Victoria.
- Ask other women about group training – chat to your friends, family or colleagues about doing an activity together, or post a question to our Facebook page where there’s a super supportive community of women who can help you out.
Can’t get out right now?
If you can’t make it outside at the moment, that’s okay. The good thing about group training is if you can’t join a class, you can try home workouts instead.
Visit Get Active @ Home to find a number of free home workout routines you can follow anytime it suits you.
Some personal trainers offer online video group training too, so ask if that’s available. It means you can joining a community of women working up a sweat together – without needing to leave the house!
Learn more about This Girl Can – Victoria and how it’s helping women feel good by getting activity in a way that suits them.