Answers (5)
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Hi Jessica,
this is a notorious problem, even in classes where - logic dictates - it should not make a difference at all. It seems that the only instructors able to get men into classes are ...... men, and even there, the majority of participants are women.
this is a notorious problem, even in classes where - logic dictates - it should not make a difference at all. It seems that the only instructors able to get men into classes are ...... men, and even there, the majority of participants are women.
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As a guy I can tell you that I don't get what I am looking for out of any type of group class. Most guys want strength and want to move weights. Something you might try is a MMA type of class to appeal to the testosterone side without moving heavy weights.
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Try changing the name of the class by making it more masculine. Women usually gravitate to "toning" classes while men are more likely to shy away from this.
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Most men avoid group exercise classes because they don’t want to look like they don’t know what they're doing ... much in the same way they avoid asking for directions! :) Sorry guys!
It all depends on the type of class you offer and how you advertise. Most men think all group exercise classes are dance aerobics estrogen fests which they are not these days, nor should they be!
When I saw a small group of guys meeting in the GEC room to do P90 and Insanity, it was my suggestion that we add classes inspired by these particular workouts. I find most guys like intense classes but also the ability to go at their own pace. So circuit-style & interval (Tabata) classes are popular
I teach a Spartacus (1.0 & 2.0) circuit class and on the class descript we add "as seen in Men's Fitness" magazine which draws their attention. (awesome workout that was created by a woman - Rachel Cosgrove but no need to mention that!!) Also as Shawn mentioned, MMA inspired workouts such as kickboxing (bags & gloves) is popular with the males and a great stress reducer. My classes are 50/50!
Most men NEED more cardio + resistance type classes. I see guys everyday on the gym floor focusing solely on weight training but their cardio endurance is shot! I explain to them that this particular class can improve their numbers in the weight room. That's all they need to hear sometimes!
My suggestion is to offer FREE demos and get a group of males that you know together to attend.
It all depends on the type of class you offer and how you advertise. Most men think all group exercise classes are dance aerobics estrogen fests which they are not these days, nor should they be!
When I saw a small group of guys meeting in the GEC room to do P90 and Insanity, it was my suggestion that we add classes inspired by these particular workouts. I find most guys like intense classes but also the ability to go at their own pace. So circuit-style & interval (Tabata) classes are popular
I teach a Spartacus (1.0 & 2.0) circuit class and on the class descript we add "as seen in Men's Fitness" magazine which draws their attention. (awesome workout that was created by a woman - Rachel Cosgrove but no need to mention that!!) Also as Shawn mentioned, MMA inspired workouts such as kickboxing (bags & gloves) is popular with the males and a great stress reducer. My classes are 50/50!
Most men NEED more cardio + resistance type classes. I see guys everyday on the gym floor focusing solely on weight training but their cardio endurance is shot! I explain to them that this particular class can improve their numbers in the weight room. That's all they need to hear sometimes!
My suggestion is to offer FREE demos and get a group of males that you know together to attend.
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I'm with Shawn and Debbie on this one. Men are naturally "violent" .. That's a strong word, but that's just saying that men usually want to do something that makes them feel powerful.
I don't know ANY male group fitness instructors. I really wish I did. It just seems like, in this area, especially on campus, women have taken over group fitness. I think it might be intimidating for many men to go into a group of all women for a fitness class. Chances are, the class won't be geared toward unisex needs. The pilates and yoga classes at our gym are both good for men and women. We usually have a diverse group in those classes.
Something else to consider is to offer a month of free group fitness classes with a gym membership. Group fitness attendance skyrocketed at our gym in November when we offered free classes. Guys like a bargain ;-)
It is a shame that more men don't take advantage of group fitness. I think most men could benefit from the change-up in routine.
I don't know ANY male group fitness instructors. I really wish I did. It just seems like, in this area, especially on campus, women have taken over group fitness. I think it might be intimidating for many men to go into a group of all women for a fitness class. Chances are, the class won't be geared toward unisex needs. The pilates and yoga classes at our gym are both good for men and women. We usually have a diverse group in those classes.
Something else to consider is to offer a month of free group fitness classes with a gym membership. Group fitness attendance skyrocketed at our gym in November when we offered free classes. Guys like a bargain ;-)
It is a shame that more men don't take advantage of group fitness. I think most men could benefit from the change-up in routine.
