Working out in a group is a big incentive to do better

Working out in a group is a big incentive to do better

It’s time to burn calories the fun way—with friends. Gather up your pals for a group exercise class, such as Zumba, BODYCOMBAT, or Athletic Fitness.

What better motivation to shape up and get moving than participate in a group exercise with your friends and community members?

Group exercise leads to positive health benefits because the company of other people encourages you to work harder to complete your workout and reach your fitness goals.

Participating in a group exercise also gives you greater incentive to follow through on your plans to go to the gym because other people rely on you to complete the exercises.

An efficient workout provided by the instructor, the energizing atmosphere of a group of people, a set exercise schedule, and upbeat music will also ensure that you do not get bored.

Now that you know the perks of group exercise, you’re all set to try some of these different workouts with your friends.

Fitness First’s personal trainer AJ Perera shares the benefits of group exercise as well as some great workouts to try with a partner.

Zumba:

Twirl, leap, shimmy, and bounce your way to a fitter body! Zumba is a cardio-dance workout that integrates upbeat music with choreographed dance moves.  You can expect a stimulating atmosphere with Latin-inspired, hip-hop, pop, or jazz music. No dance experience is necessary, as instructors will guide the class for people at all levels. The many health benefits of zumba include fat and calorie burning and improved heart health.

BODYCOMBAT:

If you’re not about dancing or are looking to try all different kinds of group exercises, try BODYCOMBAT to punch and kick off your calories! BODYCOMBAT is a lively group exercise inspired by mixed martial arts. It combines moves from boxing, karate, taekwondo, tai chi, and muay tai. Included in the many benefits of BODYCOMBAT are improved heart and lung function, reduced heart disease risk, enhanced bone density, greater strength, and better posture.

Partner Exercises:

Some exercises just can’t be done solo, so grab your friend, co-worker, or spouse and try one of these partner exercises.

Reverse Lunge with Chest Pass:

Facing your partner, stand three yards away from each other. Hold a medicine ball at your chest level. Place your front thigh parallel to the floor by stepping back with your right leg and lowering your body. Return to standing position and toss the ball to your partner. Your partner will catch the medicine ball and repeat the same process. Record the time it takes to complete a set.

Inverted Flyers:

Stand facing your partner with your feet at hip’s width apart. Stand up straight by tightening your abs and straightening your spine, and leave your hands at your sides. Keep your right foot firm on the ground and lift your left knee to hip height. Swing your left arm back and right arm forward. Squeeze your abs and lean forward on your right hip while extending your left hip back. Simultaneously, reach your right arm forward and left elbow back. Balance on your right leg and fully extend your left elbow, keeping your arm at shoulder height. High five your partner once your arm is extended. Point your left toes toward the wall behind you and hold the whole position for 3-5 seconds.


by for www.femalefirst.co.uk
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