Getting back into season

Spring is always bitter sweet for us Aerobic Instructors , we are excited to have our seasonal exercises back but at the same time, anxious for their return.  Our clubs and studios and parking lots become overcrowded for a short period of time as people become determined to get super fit and beach ready bodies.  

Our concern are those who have not been training consistently for months and suddenly arrive back in class determined to work at the level they were at last summer. This is when we have our highest incidence of fainting , falling and generally injuring themselves from going to fast ( or too heavy) too soon.

We are also occupied orientating our newbies who have never had a gym contract and are running around trying all the different class disciplines to determine which are best for them and their schedules.To facilitate a smooth season transition , I came up with the following guidelines to help instructors guide our clients ….

For the newbies;

•          Go online or ask your gym club for a copy of the class schedule so you may plan your training schedule accordingly.
•          Start with 2 to 3 classes a week initially and then you may build up your attendance according to your fitness level development.
•         Check to see if your club grades classes according to intensity and start with the beginner or lighter option.
•          Balance your class types so that you are getting to cardio as well as conditioning as well has core strengthening workouts.
•          Try a multitude of classes and instructors , variety is excellent for our bodies as well as our minds.
•          Check club rules for dress code ( such as caps for the pool ) , booking systems and duration of sessions.

For us exercise leaders;

•         Most importantly is communication , going back to basics such as  explaining  class, equipment choice, duration of session and general class rules.
•          Make ourselves more available before and after classes for newbies who need guidance.
•          Be patient, we all had to start somewhere.
•          Don't take gym etiquette for granted , not all clients have been gym bunnies all their lives , there are always new people that have never exercised in our environment.
• ·         Manage our class environment by guiding clients as to where to place themselves in class newbies always run for the back and hide :)

Most importantly , have fun!