Jake Humnick, who is a program manager of Personal and Group Training at the Andover YMCA hits some of the highlights so you can feel ready to give Small Group Training a try.

Many classes are held in the Fitness Center.

If you’ve seen a small group working out in the Fitness Center at your Y, it’s probably a Small Group Training class. Although some classes are offered in the studios, many are out in the open—to encourage participation and make use of the equipment outside of the studios.

Others in your class will have varying fitness levels.

Personal Trainers teach these classes, and are responsible to create a workout that meets your skill—which might mean that you’re doing more reps, using lighter weights, or doing a different movement than others in your class.

This customization is a real benefit of a class—you get the individualized attention, without paying as much as you might with one-on-one personal training.

There’s a lot of choice.

The options for Small Group Training classes vary by location, but no matter which Y you work out at, there are choices in the class format and duration. Classes are 30, 45 or 60 minutes and focus on cardio, strength, or both.

Small Group Training classes at the Y:

  • Welcome everyone and all levels of fitness to enjoy specialty classes.
  • Require you to register ahead of time and commit to a seven-week schedule.
  • Start at $12 per class for Y members and $18 for non-members.
  • Are often a good next step after a Fitness Solution, where you meet one-on-one with a Personal Trainer to discuss your health and wellness goals.

See a list of Small Group Training classes.

Classes are a great way to connect with others.

The name says it—classes are small. You’ll be joining a group of up to eight, so be prepared to make a new friend or two. The format of the small group also helps keep you accountable.

Small Group Training classes are a great way to complement your regular workouts in the gym or with a Personal Trainer. So, what are you waiting for? Give one a try!