Which Group Fitness Class Is Right for Me?

Why The J Is the Perfect Community Center in Overland Park to Begin Your Fitness Journey

If you’re like most people, you’re already thinking about 2024 and what the new year will bring. It’s also the perfect time to start thinking about resolutions and the goals you wish to achieve.

Maybe you want to quit a bad habit or cross some long-standing items off your bucket list. Or perhaps you’re finally ready to make a commitment to fitness and focus on your health.

If you’re attacking 2024 with a “new year, new me” type of resolve, The J’s group fitness classes are a year-round resource that can support your fitness endeavors. In fact, our community center has so many classes you might feel a tad overwhelmed by all the choices at first.   

So, how do you select the perfect group fitness class? Let us guide you through the process of choosing a class at our community center based on your fitness goals, physical capabilities, and personal preferences.

Define Your Fitness Goals

The first step in choosing the right group fitness class is to clearly define your fitness goals. What are you hoping to achieve through exercise? Some common fitness goals include:

• Weight loss: If you want to lose body fat, consider classes that involve high-intensity interval training (HIIT). These classes alternate between intense periods of cardio and strength training with brief periods of reprieve built in for recovery, resulting in maximum caloric burn and a boost in your metabolism.
• Strength building: For those aiming to build muscle and strength, options like weightlifting, bodyweight strength training, or resistance band classes are especially effective. Ideally, you engage in a routine that works all your different muscle groups evenly so that you don’t overbulk in one specific area.
• Flexibility and stress relief: Yoga and Pilates are excellent choices for improving flexibility and promoting wellness. Those who have stressful careers or personal lives find these group fitness classes especially beneficial to their mental health. Additionally, yoga and Pilates both deliver comprehensive workouts that address every major muscle group and promote flexibility.    
• Cardiovascular health: According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 7% of men and 4.2% of women report having heart disease. If you're focused on improving your heart health, try out aerobic group fitness classes such as dance fitness, Zumba, or AquaFit.

Assess Your Physical Capabilities

Your current physical condition is another crucial factor to consider when choosing a workout class near you. It's important to find a workout class that matches your fitness level, as this will prevent injury and help you progress at an appropriate pace your body can keep up with.

When considering group fitness classes, keep the following options in mind:

• Beginner-friendly classes: We all need to start somewhere. If you're new to exercise or have physical limitations, look for group fitness classes labeled as "beginner" or "introductory." These workout classes are designed to be accessible to all.
• Intermediate or advanced classes: For those with prior fitness experience, intermediate or advanced classes provide a more challenging workout. 
• Low impact vs. high impact: Consider the impact level of the class. Low-impact classes are gentler on the joints, while high-impact classes may be more demanding. Examples of low-impact group fitness classes include yoga, AquaFit, and cycling.
• Adaptive classes: The J offers adaptive fitness classes for individuals with disabilities, special requirements, or for groups of people with varying levels of athletic capability. These workout classes provide an inclusive environment for all, including those with Parkinson’s.

Identify Your Preferred Class Format

Your personal preferences play a significant role in your fitness journey. When considering workout classes near you at your local community center, think about the format of the class you'll enjoy the most:

• Group fitness classes: One of the major advantages of group fitness classes is drawing motivation from your fellow participants, which makes everyone feel like one big collective unit. The sense of unity helps drive everyone forward and progress as a whole.  
• Solo workouts: If you prefer to work out at your own pace, consider lap swimming, power walking or jogging around our indoor track, or using the community center’s fitness floor.
• Personal training: Some people benefit greatly from the one-on-one attention of personal training. When working with a personal trainer, the workout routine can be adapted to fit your specific fitness goals while keeping your own unique physical limitations in mind.

Find Workout Classes Near You at The J

Selecting the right group fitness class at your community center is a step toward achieving your fitness goals. By understanding your objectives, assessing your physical capabilities, and considering your personal preferences, you can make an informed choice that’s easy to commit to over the long-term.

Remember that finding the perfect group fitness class may require some trial and error, so don't be afraid to explore different classes until you discover the one that best suits your needs and makes your fitness journey enjoyable and fulfilling.

For more information about group fitness classes, refer to our class schedule and reservations page. Ready to become a member of The J so that you can enjoy all the perks our community center has to offer? Be sure to check out our new membership and program enrollment system.