Crossroads Fitness Blog

Most people are familiar with the term one-on-one personal training sessions. These sessions are available at most health clubs and independent studios. But what has changed could surprise you: the increased popularity of small group personal training.

Although it seems to really have hit the market recently, we’ve been offering small group personal training at Crossroads Fitness for years. 

So why is this best kept secret a hit for reaching fitness goals?

Many people say they can work out alone, and it's true many can. But for most of us, the reality is we won’t do it with success. Did you know an individual who exercises on their own has a 45 percent dropout rate within the first year? The second year it’s a 52 percent dropout rate. That leaves only a 3 percent rate for someone to succeed with an exercise plan.

Small group training is successful for many reasons. One is the fact the leader, a personal trainer, specializes in anatomy, exercise science and nutrition. Because of their education and experience, participants feel comfortable in abilities of the leader to train them. 

Small group training is also a cost-effective way to work out with a trainer. Because there’s a group, the trainer divides the cost of his or her time among a few people. Everyone benefits by sharing the cost.  

Another benefit of small group training is the variety. Each workout is carefully designed for a particular group. Classes could include cardiovascular exercise, weights, interval training, circuit Quick read more or view full article and core work. In small group training, participants also get to incorporate some fun and innovative exercise “tools” into their workouts. Many of these tools require proper technique and form, though, not only to gain the most health benefit, but more importantly, to reduce injury. Some of these exercise tools include kettle bells, plyo boxes, slam balls and suspension training.

One of the most important benefits to achieving your fitness goals through small group training is structure. By having a class you attend two or three times each week with the same trainer and same people, you begin to develop the workout habit. All you have to do is show up. That structure becomes not only part of your weekly schedule, but also your lifestyle.

The part I like best? The social aspect. A small group training class can become a close-knit group of people all trying to achieve their individual goals. I have seen it over and over at Crossroads Fitness. These people who start out exercising together don’t know each other when they begin. But after a while, they become friends both in and out of the club. 

Some classes might be conducted for businesspeople exercising before work. Other classes could be for mothers with young children. Some are a mix. The fact these people now have a support group that cares about them is one of the most beneficial aspects of small group training.  

Working out in a group yields more success than attempting to do it on your own. Give small group training a try and see the benefits for yourself. You’ll be amazed to find a trainer and group of people who are there to cheer you on.