Group Exercise Class Standard Etiquette Guidelines
Whether it is a small or large group exercise class setting, there are a number of standard suggested etiquette guidelines to follow when attending these classes. This month ten etiquette guidelines will be featured which may ensure you and those around you enjoy every workout session to the fullest. As always, prior to beginning any exercise program, please consult your physician.
*Note: If you are a new participant, set up an orientation with the program director prior to beginning your first class. Share your personal expectations and any physical limitations (i.e., you should have completed a health history questionnaire prior to attending) with the director so that they may suggest the best class format fit for you.
10 Group Exercise Class Etiquette Guidelines
1) Arrive Early! Depending upon the format of the class, you may need to arrive anywhere from 10-20 minutes early. Especially when attending indoor group cycling class formats or any format which requires you to set up your own equipment, arriving early has a positive impact upon you and your class mates’ exercise experience. So, if the class start time is 5:45AM, you will want to arrive by 5:30AM to be ready to train promptly at 5:45AM. If the posted class time is 8:15AM, then arriving at 8-8:05 is recommended.
2) Additionally, if this is a well-attended class, you may need to arrive early just to secure a spot in an open, first come, first serve class format. Regarding cycling class formats or Pilates Reformer class formats, there is limited equipment (i.e., a specific number of bikes or Reformers). Consequently, utilizing the studio or gym’s booking service allows you to book in advance securing your spot in the class. Therefore, familiarize yourself with the relevant booking system and processes for each different studio/gym.
3) Turn off your cell phone completely. Unless you have a potential emergency call, such as firefighters, police officers, physicians, or perhaps a sick child at home that you need to be available for, leaving your cell phone in your locker or cubbie is greatly appreciated by everyone.
4) If you are new, most instructors will welcome you to class. However, if they are occupied providing pre-class set-up, introduce yourself. This allows them to meet you, find out a little bit about you and your capability level so they may safely and effectively address your needs during class. They may suggest a specific location for you to be positioned within the room so they may keep an eye on you ensuring your safety, fun and success during class.
5) In general, position yourself in the group exercise space so that you are able to hear and see effectively. If you feel you will be obstructed, ask the instructor for relocation suggestions.
6) As with any public speaking/performance environment, complete attention should be paid to the speaker/instructor so that everyone is able to hear and understand the information and instructions throughout the class. If you are chatting excessively, this may be distracting to those around you. So, a great suggestion is to wait until after class and share a healthy shake at the juice bar where you may chat comfortably.
7) And, to that end also pay attention to the instructor’s pre-class introduction and class format descriptions for that day. This is the ideal time to ask any pertinent questions.
8) With the exception of cycling classes, place your water and towel around the perimeter of the room so that you have access when needed, which helps to prevent water dripping on the floor leading to slip/falls and towels as an obstruction.
9) If you need to leave class early please notify the instructor prior to class beginning. Additionally, if you need to utilize the restroom facilities during class, catch the instructor’s eye to let them know why you are leaving class as we must keep track of all of our clients to ensure their safety.
10) If you had difficulty with any aspect of the class, take a moment and chat with the instructor following class. Let them provide you with their valuable direction and suggestions so that future class experiences may be positive and successful.
By: Jackie Wright, Owner/Manager Lakewood Fitness