Does Pineapple belong on pizza?

Should the toilet roll face over or under?

Are classes or a gym program going to be better for getting me results?

While I don’t have answers to the first two questions, just an opinion, the third question however is something that I hope to provide a few thoughts on as you work your way through the age old question – classes or gym program….

CAVEAT

Before we get too headlong into the debate of gym versus classes, it’s important to understand that when it comes to gym programs and classes, they are not necessarily all created equal. For the purposes of this article, we’re going to assume that the classes and gym programs are to be developed and delivered by an experienced and competent coach.

GYM PROGRAM PROS AND CONS

In building out this list, we’re working on the assumption that you have a standard 24/7 gym membership, which includes unlimited access to the gym, as well as an initial gym program developed.

PROS

• You have full flexibility to be able to do this whenever it suits you – not having to work your training around a class timetable.

• The program can be tailored exclusively to suit your current fitness level.

• Your program can also be developed exclusively to your training goals – which is especially important if you have some specific goals in mind.

• You’ll be shown through the program and all of the exercises to make sure you’re able to do the exercises correctly.

• You’ll have access to the gym app that will detail the program (with full video links and technique tips etc.)

• It’s a more affordable option

CONS

• Doing it on your own requires a higher level of motivation to keep walking in the door.

• If you’re inexperienced, knowing exactly what to do can be a big challenge and many when starting out can feel a bit anxious about this.

• You don’t have anyone monitoring your technique, so it’s easier to develop bad or dangerous training habits.

• You will repeat the workout for at least 4-6 weeks which can lead to a bit of monotony or a plateau in results.

• Left to their own device, many tend to keep a little bit too much in their “comfort zone”.

CLASSES PROS AND CONS

From a class perspective, we’re working on the assumption that you have a standard class membership that includes access to all of our HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) styled classes, as well as accountability and nutrition support.

PROS

• Every day is different. This means that things remain a lot more engaging and you avoid any unnecessary plateaus due to repeating workouts.

• You have a coach guiding you through every single session making sure you’re working at an intensity that is going to give you the best fitness gains.

• Due to the higher level of coaching and support, you’ll also be able to do more effective exercises that are generally more complex in nature.

• You’ll have a coach following you up and making sure you get into strong training routines.

• You have the support and motivation of others in the class.

CONS

• You are limited to the timetable and available classes.

• It is more expensive.

• May not be the most suitable option if you have very specific training goals that are not general in nature.

• If you have an injury, it can be a challenge to find “injury-free” alternatives.

So is one option better than the other?….

Well yes and no.

If you’re a seasoned gym goer that is highly motivated, or if you have some very specific training goals that you want to achieve, or if you have a very tight schedule, or not that financial at the moment, then a gym program is going to be something you want to look at.

On the flip side, if you’re relatively new and would appreciate the extra coaching support received in classes or the increased “away from gym support” with attendance and nutrition coaching, then classes are going to be the more likely alternative for you.

The reality is that there is no “best” option. It really is an individual thing and that’s not to say that what is working for you now will continue to work in the future – you may need to mix things up a bit.

Anyway, I hope that’s given you a bit to chew over when considering your class versus gym program options. If you’re after more information and want to chat about what is available at EmpowerFit, click on the link below.