I just finished teaching my kettlebell class at the Bristol Slater Center. I just love my class. My students are so excited to learn new things and they especially love a physical challenge. You have to be 50 years old or older to attend any classes at the Slater Center. I’m sure you are thinking that classes there must be a piece of cake, but quite the contrary, these gals and guys want a challenge.
As a matter of fact a few weeks back my daughter Allie was in for the summer and came with me to help me with the class. She was whipped after class and she is in great shape, not to mention the fact that she had the idea that she would run five miles afterward. She did not. Of course, there are a variety of classes there to meet the fitness needs of everyone, even those with major limitations. The instructors at the Slater Center are very qualified to teach safe, fun-filled classes for all levels and with a smile on their faces.
I want to emphasize the fact that just because I love kettlebell workouts does not mean that it is right for everyone in the world. It’s up to you to find the class that best meets your wellness goals in a safe and effective manner. Here are a few tips to help you find the class or classes that fit you.
- Make sure the instructors are qualified to teach the particular genre of class that they are teaching. Do they teach in a user friendly manner? In other words, do they know that they have a host of people behind them, following their every move and are conscious of helping instruct proper exercise form and giving good cues to adapt intensity for all in the class? It is very difficult to teach a large class and be mindful of all the different fitness levels. I have to remind myself of that before every class and not neglect the safety of all participants.
- The social aspects of group fitness classes are extremely important. It is so nice to see familiar faces and get a phone call or email when you miss your regular routine. I have met some of my dearest friends through teaching fitness classes over the years. We have a lot in common. My saying is, “Those that sweat together, stick together,” yes that is gross!
- Look for a group fitness class that meets at a time that best suits your daily schedule. It’s all about getting on a regular routine and sticking with it. If you sign up for a class that meets at 6 a.m. and you are not a morning person, chances are you will not succeed in that endeavor. Make it as time friendly for you as possible.
- Proximity is also important. Try and attend a facility that is fairly close to where you live. If you think you will drive 45 minutes to exercise, it sounds good, but in reality life is busy and each minute is precious, so find something close if possible.
- The most important advice I can give you is just to stay as active as possible in group fitness classes, outside hiking, biking, jogging or walking, in the gym resistance training, in the pool or in your home. Find something that fits you.
See you in the gym.
