Group fitness class experience
A Lesson in Confidence and Community
This blog is a written account of my first group fitness class experience at PureGym Wolverhampton South. If you prefer to listen you can watch my YouTube video on just this here.
The Nerves Before the Class
Last week marked a milestone I never thought I’d reach. I ran my very first group fitness class as a personal trainer at PureGym Wolverhampton South! 💪
To be honest, the morning started off nerve-wracking. I kept checking the sign-up list, and no one had registered. Half an hour before the class, just one person signed up. That’s when the self-doubt kicked in. Would this even be worth running? What if no one else came? Should I set it up? Is that a waste of time?
Instead of letting those thoughts take over, I decided to do something different. Something different and yet entirely something I would do.
Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone
I knew that if I wanted people to come, I had to take action. So, instead of setting up the class straight away, I let my desire to help people get fitter dictate my actions. I walked the gym floor and started inviting people.
Introducing myself to members, I told them about the class, and reassured them that it was beginner-friendly, no pressure, and a great way to try something new. I even made it clear that since I had only recently qualified, it was also my first time running a class. This was a great way to highlight to them that we were all in the same boat!
By the time I was done, I had spoken to about six people. Some were interested but not ready yet, and that was okay. But then something amazing happened...
The Three People Who Showed Up
When the class started, I am so pleased to share that I had three amazing people join me.
One of them told me afterwards that she had never attended a fitness class before because she was always too nervous. But after our chat, she decided to give it a go, and she did great!
That moment meant the world to me. Not just because she attended my class, but because I helped someone take a step they never thought they would.
Lessons from My First fitness Class
This experience taught me a lot, and I want to share some of the biggest takeaways:
Success isn’t about perfection, it’s about showing up. You don’t need to be the best, you just need to start.
Building relationships is just as important as the workout itself. People come back to things that make them feel welcome and supported.
Small steps lead to big changes. Whether it’s inviting someone to a class or trying something new, every step matters.
If You’re Nervous, You’re Not Alone
I know how hard that first step can feel. I’ve been there. Whether it’s joining a class, stepping into the gym, or even just thinking about working out, it can feel overwhelming.
In my classes, there’s no pressure to be perfect. I explain everything in advance, demonstrate every movement, and make sure there’s plenty of time for breaks. This is a space where you can take things at your own pace. You can read more about how to combat gym anxiety or intimidation here.
Join me for the next one!
If you’re in Wolverhampton and have been thinking about trying a class but feel nervous, I’d love to support you. Send me a message or come say hi at the gym!
This is just the beginning, and I’m so proud to be building a community where everyone feels like they belong. This was my first group fitness class experience and I am already looking forward to the next ones. I hope you are too!
👉 Have you ever felt nervous about joining a fitness class? What helped you take that first step? Let me know!