Two weeks ago Coach Shane had the opportunity to experience first hand the growing trend of indoor rowing classes on a trip to New York. This week we’re breaking down the six biggest reasons that working out in a group may be the key to unlocking the benefits of your workout.

If you’re not a regular at the gym, heading to the health club for the first time can be intimidating. But, introducing yourself to fitness through a group exercise session or two can offer the instruction, motivation, and camaraderie that you may need to get started. Here are six reasons why joining a group session may be right for you.

You get professional fitness instruction.

Certified coaches can provide great guidance on form, workout intensity, and goal setting. This was reason number one for us setting up the Dark Horse Academy and delivering the industry standard in rowing education.

Coaches can help you become acquainted with the best exercise options for you and ensure that you get results from all of your hard work. And, if you find a coach you like during group exercise, consider asking them if they’re available for one-on-one instruction. Learning from a professional is a great way to get started with fitness.

There’s motivation in a group.

Teamwork and camaraderie are big reasons why group exercise is extremely popular. Encouragement comes in the form of a group instructor asking for one more push-up or trying to match what others in the class are doing. The feeling that “we’re all in this together” is a powerful driving force and you might be surprised by just how much it motivates you. If you’re competitive, trying to keep up with some of the fittest in the class could help you amp up the intensity.

You gain inspiration from others.

Ever heard the phrase ‘you are the average of the five people you hang around with the most’? Well in this sense of the saying imagine hanging around with a bunch of badasses all rowing 5 secs faster than you. What do you think this will do to your rowing. You got it, it’s only going to make you better.

If you’re new to fitness you may need a goal to shoot for. Look around at others who excel in your session and realize that many of them were at the same point you are. Know that if you stick with your routine you can reach their fitness level. The people in your group exercise class all have different stories, take the time to learn them.

Scheduled workouts keep you on the fitness path.

Finding random time to go to the gym isn’t always easy, but when it’s on your schedule in advance it’s more likely to become routine. You can plan time around your weekly or daily group sessions and make your workouts more convenient. Being a workout regular is much easier when convenience is considered.

It’s a chance to meet new people.

Going to the gym regularly is easier when you have a workout partner, and group training is a great way to meet people who have similar fitness goals. Any fitness facility is a more welcoming place when you have friends there, and it doesn’t take long to get to know the regulars in group exercise classes.

Group exercise is fun.

Let’s not forget this important aspect. When done right a group training session should be an invigorating experience complete with an energetic instructor and a lively environment. When it’s at its best, the group exercise experience takes your mind off of the fact that you’re burning calories and working up a sweat.

So there you have it! The biggest reasons you might want to look at getting involved with group exercise. Being a Dark Horse doesn’t always mean exercising on your own, get out there and see for yourself.

See you on the other side.

Coach John.