Buzz
If you're struggling with social anxiety or simply prefer to be on your own, the gym can sometimes feel daunting. You might catch yourself accidentally locking eyes with strangers in the mirror or exchanging awkward nods with that person you vaguely remember from months ago when they spotted you on the bench press. It can feel pretty uncomfortable.
Group fitness classes can feel even more intimidating, especially if you're new. But by preparing yourself for what to expect, you can ease the discomfort and make the experience a bit more enjoyable. After all, group classes can provide motivation and may encourage you to push yourself further than you would during solo workouts. Here's a breakdown of how to approach your first group fitness class by yourself.
Choosing the Right Class
If you're concerned about the difficulty level, make sure to choose a class that fits your experience—whether it's for beginners or another level you're comfortable with. Jimmy T. Martin, co-founder of Brrrn, a New York City gym offering group classes, emphasizes that preparation is essential. 'Anyone who takes a group exercise class—regardless of their fitness level—should be as well-informed as possible,' he explained during a phone interview. 'For Brrrn, not knowing you're exercising in 50-degree temperatures for 50 minutes would be concerning.' He also advises that if you have any injuries, it's crucial to gather information about the class and reach out to the gym for guidance. They can provide insights on the workout and its potential impact on your specific situation.
For those with social anxiety, some classes might seem more daunting than others. Take SoulCycle, for example: it’s typically just you, a group of others, and an instructor. Everyone faces forward, and interaction between participants is minimal. But in classes that require working in pairs, such as certain CrossFit sessions, the experience may be a bit more awkward when paired with a stranger. Consider which type of class might be more comfortable for you and offer the benefits you're seeking.
Signing In
When you arrive for your first yoga, boxing, or group fitness class, your first task is to check in at the front desk. The staff member will mark your name off the list. Be upfront and let them know it's your first class. A friendly staffer will guide you, sharing important details such as where the locker rooms are, where to refill your water bottle, the class start time, and any other relevant information. Don't hesitate to ask about anything you're unsure or nervous about.
Preparing for Class to Start
You arrive early, and class participants begin to filter in one by one. As others from the previous session leave, you all gather in a corner of the room. If you're open to it, you could introduce yourself to another participant and mention it's your first class. Often, someone with more experience will offer a few tips on what to expect. (During one boxing class, a fellow member shared that the heat was the toughest part of the workout, and knowing that helped me prepare mentally.)
If you're not in the mood to chat, that's perfectly fine too. You can use the time to change or stretch. 'You don’t have to worry about making friends,' said Martin. 'The most important relationship you should focus on is the one you have with yourself and the one you develop with your instructor.'
In Class
A good instructor will check the room for beginners and ask them to raise their hands. Be sure to do so. If they don’t ask, feel free to mention it at the start of the class, especially if you have any injuries. As the class progresses, don't feel pressured to keep pace with others. They were beginners too, once. And if you need to take a break to hydrate, go for it. 'Group exercise' isn’t a competition—you can do as much or as little as you like. If you liked the class, sign up for more. If not, there are plenty of other SoulCycles in the sea.
