From Aqua Fit and Barre to Bootcamp and Yoga, options abound for group fitness classes that not only help you get (and stay) in shape, they’ll help you get your groove back if fitness didn’t top your summer to-do list. Classes make going to the gym fun, combining a great workout with the opportunity to create meaningful social connections, the motivational boost you get from participating as a group, and the added variety in your gym routine that’ll help you stay on track!

Get Social with Group Fitness

One of the biggest benefits of taking group fitness classes is the social environment. Group classes that are tailored to all ages and abilities allow you to make like-minded friends who share the same goals to improve their health and fitness. Your new social circle can help keep each other accountable, too!  A study by the Society of Behavioral Medicine showed that working out with a partner, especially in a group format, improved performance, doubling the workout time of those who exercised alone.

Fitness Classes Boost Motivation

While going it alone can be great when you have a personal trainer to coach you along, group fitness gives you an extra boost of encouragement in a supportive environment. You’ll be amazed at how much more you can get out of 50 minutes in the gym when you have a motivating instructor and a class full of people all working hard together!

“Having a reliable workout buddy increases your chances of sticking with your program,” says Elizabeth Lombardo, Ph.D., MS, PT psychologist, and author of A Happy You: Your Ultimate Prescription for Happiness (Morgan James, 2009). In fact, according to a study in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, not only did 95 percent of those who started a weight-loss program with friends complete the program, they were 42 percent more likely to maintain their weight loss.

Group Fitness Classes Give Much-Needed Exercise Variety

Keep your fitness journey fresh by trying a variety of class options. From challenging to restorative, group classes can give you exactly what you need on that day. The good news is, if you love changing up your workouts, you don’t have to join separate barre, yoga or cycling studios because your Y membership gives you access to unlimited free group fitness classes … all under one roof!

With a wide range of group classes, fully equipped fitness facilities, and so much more, the YMCA of Orange County offers you so many ways to be your best. We all have different goals, and we’re here to help you achieve them — whether you’re looking to get fit, relieve stress, or just want to create positive, healthy habits for you and your family.