Group Training: Filling In the Gaps

THEN

          In ancient times gladiators trained together in small groups to attain elite physical conditioning. They worked, lived and exercised together. They grew stronger together. Gladiators were taught in small groups by a master, a practice which helped them individually and in team combat. he cohesion of the small group made the rigors of life for these warrior slaves possible.

NOW

          With the increasing emphasis on health and wellness and simultaneous increase of disease among Americans, new demands are placed on fitness training professionals. The desire to attain overall fitness and improved functional capacity now competes with the narrow goal of enhancing physical appearance. Small group training is meeting the demands of the masses due to versatility, exciting atmosphere, economical cost, and its inherent peer support and accountability.

TRADITIONAL METHODS

          One-on-One: Since its inception, personal training has been geared towards highly individualized client-trainer interaction. People pay premium to have uncontested attention–and it definitely works, but not for everyone!

          Go-it-Alone: The mentality is that each person has unique goals and is responsible for his or her own program. A trainer may or may not help in this process, but something is lost with this design. It can limit potential by isolating individuals from a primary resource—the influence, experience, knowledge, and motivation of peers!

SMALL GROUP TRAINING (Filling in the Gaps)

          It is demonstrated in numerous studies that people profit from group training. This is a result of Transactive Memory which simply means that groups develop a shared memory system. The group learns together and collectively is able to recall information more effectively than those educated alone. It is important to understand that many of the challenges of life require group interaction (like team sports, business meetings, etc.), so training alone might not be the most valuable vehicle for long term, real-life performance enhancement.

          Another reason why group training might be more effective than going it alone relates to the Social Identity Theory. This multifaceted, complex set of concepts explains how and why individuals socialize and form a collective identity. It provides insight into how people perceive life and others within and without their group, and it reveals that people included within a distinct group oftentimes develop a “We” rather than an “I” mentality. Especially in exercise or weight loss, it is invaluable to have a support system and a team atmosphere. Overweight and obesity is frowned upon and ridiculed by society, which leads overweight and obese people to avoid social engagements, especially those which appear to exclude them. A team of individuals determined to improve their lives will profit from a shared dream and a collective security. That is one reason why Biggest Loser type challenges are one of the hottest fitness trends in recent years.

          Small group training empowers people at similar fitness levels, or with similar goals, by building a group dynamic. It leads to interpersonal accountability, mutual reassurance, the formation of new and increasingly challenging goals–essentially the formula for longevity and program adherence.

NEW METHODS

          Small group training, because of its social dynamics is energetic. The design and construction of group programs must be proportionally exciting. Oftentimes circuit-based programs are used to harness and facilitate an energetic environment. As a result, there is no room for repetition counting and one-at-a-time type workouts. Participants are pitted against several work stations where they vigorously engage the challenge for a small increment of time before moving on to the next available station. There is not a lot of time for thought or conversation. However, exercises must be explained and learned prior to the workout for safety and efficiency.

          New group training methods do not rely heavily on machines but instead incorporate the newest “toys” that are portable, creative, and entertaining. They provide great results but liberate people from warehouses of single-function strength machines and treadmills. They resemble, interestingly, more ancient forms of training.

          The functional training movement (within the fitness industry) has enhanced group training by providing individuals with challenges that closely mimic real-life activities and movements. The training techniques enable people more than ever to be balanced and versatile, coordinated and strong, flexible and chiseled. It is possible more than ever to be the whole package without even thinking about it!!!

POSSIBILITIES

          Group personal training offers much to individuals in pursuit of better, healthier lives. It is engaging, energetic, and cost-effective. It involves group support, team building/positive group identity, and program longevity. Thus, it ensures that people will actually see the rewards of their hours in the gym. So get out there and train like a gladiator!