The benefits of Group Exercise

The benefits of attending a group class include:

Proper instruction
Correct technique is important in any workout for the prevention of injury and to maximise results. Class instruction is great for those who may be intimidated to use particular equipment, by learning about proper technique in a group environment.


Motivation
Exercising side by side with others brings out the ego in all of us. Being able to keep up with the class is great motivation for pushing personal boundaries and achieving goals.

Socialisation
Interaction with other class members who share common interests is a great way to meet new people and make new friends.

Consistency in routine
Scheduled classes are particularly good for those who like to work to a routine. They enable people with limited time to fit in a full body workout in a set timeframe.

Which Class??
Gyms offer a variety of classes, all offering different benefits and demand varying skills and effort on the part of participants. All classes can be adapted to an individual level. You can engage in group exercise according to personal preferences there are many different classes to choose from some include:

Les Mills choreographed classes
By far the most popular form of group exercise offered in gyms worldwide. These pre-choreographed classes follow strict guidelines and can only be taught by Les Mills accredited instructors. Les Mills classes can be identified by their trademark “body” prefix. They offer a range of classes to suit every workout including:
“Body Pump” – Weight workout
“Body Attack” – Cardio workout
“Body Combat” – Aerobic workout incorporation non contact martial arts
“Body Jam” – Dance workout
“Body Balance” - Incorporates a mix of Yoga, Tai Chi & Pilates

Cycle/Spin classes
Conducted indoors you need not have any bike riding experience as all bikes are stationary and supported by stands. These intense classes get you to rise up from your seats, peddle against a high level of resistance and pump your legs at a rapid pace in various combinations. The ultimate challenge, as you ride to the rhythm of the music.

Yoga
In this face paced world time out to relax your body and calm your mind is essential. In yoga postures flow one after the next with soothing sounds tracks, and end in a deep relaxation session. Yoga postures ultimately require and build strength, as you hold a position it demands your body to find balance engaging muscles in ways that rarely occur in everyday living. This is a great workout for your health and wellbeing.

Pilates
Pilates focuses on body awareness, and symmetry in motion. It uses controlled movements working on the pelvic floor and core muscles particularly the lower back, oblique, abdominal and hip muscles.

Freestyle Boxing
Freestyle Boxing as opposed to “body combat” permits body contact using boxing gloves and protective pads. Classes allow for a full body workout with aerobic and muscle building aspects.

Group exercise classes vary by as much as the different fitness instructors who teach them. So try them all and mix them up. Variety really does create the best balance.

For information on a class near you go to Connect Fitness, and check out ourlatest timetables!

Exercise for Stress Relief

Exercises for relieving stress may be in the form physical, mental, or spiritual exercise - or a combination of all three, e.g. yoga. What is good for the body is good for the mind and vice versa.

Physical exercise is one of the most effective ways of relieving stress. Exercising the body regularly is very effective in managing stress, on its own or as a part of a stress management plan. Getting into better shape improves your mental health as well as your physical health.

When we physically exert ourselves, the body releases chemical substances (endorphins). These natural substances produced by our own bodies are free of side effects, except for making us feel good.

When it comes to stress management, every little bit of exercise counts. Don’t think if you can’t commit to a stringent fitness routine that it’s useless. It’s not. What motivates people to do more of something is to do little of something.

Aerobics
Any activity that gets your heart pumping (aerobic exercise) will get those endorphins flowing and relieve stress. Though you should check with your doctor before embarking on any exercise program, walking is usually safe for anyone.
Try to get your heart going a little faster for at least 15 minutes a day. Even a few minutes here and there of brisk walking can provide stress relief and improve your overall health.

Exercises to Suit Everyone
From doing gentle stretching exercises to keeping up in a physically demanding aerobics class, stress relief can be achieved through a wide range of activities.
Some people enjoy the solitude of walking alone. Other people need the stimulation of interacting with others, whether walking in a group, participating in a yoga class or other fitness class. Interacting with other people during exercise can provide additional stress relief.

Strengthening Exercises
Though not generally as effective as aerobics for relieving stress, many people find that getting into a strengthening exercise program does relieve stress.
Strength exercises are also important to prevent injury during aerobic exercise by strengthening the muscles that support your joints. A toned body has as much impact on mental wellness as physical wellness.

Stretching
Stretching exercises stimulate receptors in the nervous system that decrease the production of stress hormones. Stretching exercises also relax tight, tense muscles and increase blood flow to the muscles.

Other Exercises
Yoga exercises involve the body, mind and spirit. Yoga poses improve flexibility and strength and incorporate breathing techniques that aid in relaxation and general wellness.

Stress relief exercises that don't involve movement but involve both mind and body include meditation exercises and deep breathing exercises - both have been shown to reduce blood pressure.

Make fitness a priority. Exercise effectively relieves depression and anxiety. Find an activity that you enjoy and feel the stress melt away. Relieving Stress by exercise, especially aerobic exercise, has been proven to be highly effective.

* Please be advised that you are solely responsible for the way this information is perceived and utilised. Please see your physician before changing your diet or starting an exercise program.