I worked as a Group Exercise Instructor and a Personal Trainer for about a year. It has its ups an downs but I enjoyed the experience. I love to help people and what better way to do that than by helping them reach their health and fitness goals, right?! Some of the people I met with regarding personal training decided not to hire a trainer at the time because they already do group classes or workout by themselves. Below are some pros and cons of both Group Exercise and Personal Training.
Group Exercise
Pros
Fun, social environment
Some people enjoy group classes because it can be a way to meet new friends who also care about their well-being as much as you do. Surrounding yourself with positive energy and influences is so important in life.
Cost-effective
Group classes can range in price, you may even find some for free!
High-energy instructors
While I’m instructing group classes, I keep in mind that some people have had a rough day and this is the time that they can de-stress. Expect a nice smile and a hearty, “Good job!” Or “YAASSS, (your name here)! You are slaying this workout honey!” Or even a cool, “Ok, I see you! You betta come through with those squats!"
Great for maintenance
Signing up for a MWF class is a good way to be sure you get your 30-60 minutes of strength or cardio movement in and maintain your body image.
After my first day as a group ex instructor!
Cons
Not individualized
Even though group classes can be super fun and cost friendly, the routines are not tailor made (random but wasn’t there a guy on "I love New York” named Tailormade?) for you. Also, it’s a lot more difficult for the the instructor to be able to cue and correct everyone’s form if there are 20+ people in a class.
May take longer to see results
Of course you’ve seen those people on insta who’ve lost 100 pounds by doing Zumba over the course of a year (kudos to them!) but for the most, you’ll have to double or even triple up on group classes to see weight loss results because the classes aren’t created specifically for you.
Personal Training
Pros
It’s all about you! Unlike group classes, you’ll be able to spend time with a certified fitness professional who will focus on you the entire session. This can mean an individualized workout routine and meal plan to make sure you’re successful on your fitness journey.
Accountability and motivation
You can count on your trainer to help keep you accountable. For example, if you don’t show up for your 6:30 am session, guess who will be doing burpees for days next time? You, boo boo. That’s all the motivation you need right there!
More results-oriented
“Bleep maintain, boy I gotta keep BALLIN’!” Fitness professionals make a living off of whether they’re able to help a client get results. When you’re tired of seeing the same body in the mirror, it’s time to holla at a PT and become transformed. Your success and your trainer’s success are both wrapped up together in a cute pink box with a polka dotted ribbon tied around it.
Relationship & Chillness
Unlike group classes, you are able to vent and spend one-on-one time with someone who you know is there for you and willing to do what it takes for you to reach your goals. If you’re someone who likes going in for a no-nonsense workout (no loud, upbeat music, no sweat from others, no excess yelling from an annoying instructor (like me lol)), PT is probably for you.
Cons
Different energy
Assuming that you have a good trainer who you mesh well with, you still might not get that same high energy and comradery that you will from a group class. If you thrive on being around a lot of people, this is something to consider.
It can be pricey!
Depending on where you go or who you go to, all that individualization and accountability can cost you over $50 per session. Of course, some are more affordable. But, can you really put a price tag on living a healthier life? You’ve only got one body on this earth, might as well treat it right and feel good in it!
Overall, the most important thing is that you’re taking care of yourself with regular exercise and good, healthy food. Your mode is totally up to you! :)