I've been hearing a lot of negative press about "drop-in" exercise classes recently and, as I run a few of these myself, I wanted to give a balanced view on exercise classes, and summarise what works best for different people.
There are two main types of fitness class out there, especially when it comes to the increasingly-popular Bootcamp model: 1) Drop-in and 2) Course or "block". A drop-in session is exactly that. You just PAYG, turn up when you can, and you are in no way committed to the sessions. With these type of sessions, usually you are paying for just the exercise and there are no other added extras. With a block of sessions you pay for the whole block (typically 10-12 sessions) in advance and as such you have the financial incentive to attend! Many pilates classes run as courses so that the class participants can progress together, rather than having newcomers joining all the time. Many Bootcamp companies run courses that are a full package, for the simple reason that you can pretty much guarantee results! If you're working out 2-3 times per week, following a specific meal plan and have full nutritional support, you should be able to drop a dress size in a month.... and keep that weight off if you continue with further sessions.
So which is best?
The answer is.... it depends on your situation and what you're looking for! I've read some comments on the web saying that drop-in classes are completely pointless as you can't get results with just one workout a week. That much is absolutely true! So much of weight loss is to do with nutrition and numerous other factors! But that's not to say that drop-in classes don't have a place. Below I have outlined the main benefits of the two different types of class (with particular reference to Bootcamps). Have a read, and decide what works best for you.
Drop-in sessions
PROS:
- cheaper (typically £5-£8 per session depending on class type / location / duration)
- can join at any time
- you don't pay for any sessions missed e.g. if you're sick or on holiday
CONS:
- if you just don't feel like it one week, there's no incentive to go
- won't get results on its own
- not a lifestyle change i.e. no nutritional guidance
As you'll see from the above, the Pros mean that this type of class is ideal for certain types of people. My drop-in circuits class started out because a group of city rowers wanted an extra workout over the winter when they couldn't get out on the river. After the first season, I opened the class up to people outside of the rowing club, and last year kept it going over the summer as a Bootcamp style (outdoor circuits) class. This means that a large number of people who attend my Bootcamp are rowers who have a fitness regime in place already, others are regular exercisers either at gyms or they're runners. And then there are a few who are novice exercisers, but my class has given them the perfect platform from which to start a new healthier lifestyle and, more importantly, has given them confidence to take up a new sport and get moving more. I also have a Buggy Bootcamp franchise (www.buggy_bootcamp.co.uk) and this runs as a drop-in. The class is aimed at Mums with babies and toddlers so they can work out without worrying about childcare. But most new Mums are not in a position to commit to a big outlay of sessions because, let's face it, who knows when an emergency nappy change / screaming fit / sleep deprivation / health visitor check-up might make it impossible to get out the door on time!
Pre-paid courses:
PROS:
- full nutritional support
- multiple sessions per week
- guaranteed results (if you adhere to the diet plans and attend all exercise sessions)
CONS:
- no flexibility, courses run on specific dates
- more expensive
- strict diet plans to follow (not difficult - just strict)!
Again, it's very clear that this type of program is more suitable for some people than others. If you're a busy, working Mum of 3 and don't feel you can prioritise making some major lifestyle changes, then you might find it tough to follow the plan laid out by many Bootcamps. Also, if you don't have a regular work pattern or weekly routine, it might be difficult for you to make 3 exercise sessions each week that all run at a specific time. But, it's plain to see that if you are looking for real results then this is what you need. You just need to be 100% committed.
So in my mind, both types of session have their place, and I stand by my decision to run drop in sessions, as they can be a huge benefit to some individuals. Obviously I can only speak for my own classes, and the quality of teaching varies enormously, so pick your instructors carefully! The principal reasons that I am not running bigger Bootcamps within the Lovefit Training umbrella are 1) My 1-1 PT business takes up the bulk of my time and 2) Here in Cambridge this model is already being run - very well - by another company (see below)>
I'll end with a summary:
Pick DROP-IN classes if you... need an introduction to an exercise routine / already have an established fitness regime and want some variety / simply crave the endorphins that follow a good workout / don't feel you are ready to make massive changes to your lifestyle and diet but want to get fitter / want an hour of "me time" each week that enables you to make friends and feel great afterwards!
Cambridge people check out my website www.lovefittraining.co.uk
Pick SIGN-UP courses if you... are looking for a complete overhaul / want to see results fast / do not have the motivation to work out solo / need nutritional guidance / are prepared to commit 100% and put your wellbeing in somebody else's hands!
Cambridge people check out Charlie Wall's website http://cambridgebootcamps.co.uk/
Your perfect match is out there! (Now I sound like a dating site). But seriously, for non-Cambridge people, if you're looking for a Bootcamp in other areas, message me and I'll see if I can find you a suitable contact in your area.
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