Group fitness a fun way to go

Teaching group fitness for more than 20 years has given me incredible insight and experience into its success. Why does it work? It's simple.
Firstly it's done to music. Music is one of the most, if not the most biggest motivators. Secondly it's done in a group, and the group dynamic also motivates. We are social beings and we tend to function really well independently but relative to another all at the same time. It also depends on the instructor and his or her knowledge and experience to facilitate and teach the group. If the teacher is interested and values the class, the participants will reflect that back and a mutual energised dynamic occurs. For those who need the research there is plenty available on all these factors, but while everybody is thinking about how it works there is a collective of us who are too busy doing it, enjoying it and reaping the rewards from it to sit and think about it too deeply. Having had so many years in the industry, I love it probably more now than ever and are more inspired at the age I am now than when I was younger. My classes have taken me into different sectors of the Whanganui community. Mental health, falls prevention, rehabilitation, and of course general fitness and recreation. I don't think any of it would be beneficial if both class and instructor didn't have fun. If I had to pick an area that has had the most growth it would be with the older population. Twenty years ago I was treating my class with kid gloves. Not a weight in sight, just balloons and paper plates, but my classes now are a far cry from those early beginnings. However I still do offer a more gentler option for those who require it. As I am lucky enough to work in mental health now as well, I feel very fortunate to be able to bring my skills and experience as part of a wellness plan for those who face the ongoing battle with stress levels which is also linked to serious health issues like diabetes and heart disease. Group fitness will always have its place and until the time comes when for whatever reason I shan't be able to teach it, I shall be pushing to be at the forefront of it in our community. It's time to put my 20-plus years experience to good use by ensuring some of the useful practices are kept going. So if becoming a group fitness instructor is something you are interested in becoming, call me and together we will walk through an NZQA training pathway to make that happen. Leg warmers, g-strings and headbands are not required - the only requirement is to make sure you want to have fun and get fit!
For more information go to www.carlascoachingforhealth.com