Creative
Class Makeovers
By Krista Popowych
Lack of inspiration can be an occupational hazard for
a fitness instructor. If your students are starting
to find your routines humdrum, it’s time for a
class makeover. The good news: Making a conscious effort
to implement creative ideas—regardless of the
format—doesn’t have to be a huge undertaking.
Adding a piece of equipment, reconfiguring the studio
layout or partnering students may get the creative juices
flowing again. Implement one or more of the following
ideas and get yourself back on the road to interesting
and inspirational classes.
Music Makeover. A hip and happening
beat may be just the energy injection a lackluster workout
needs. Have fun with music, and take full advantage
of its ability to motivate. You may also want to experiment
with volume.
Follow the Trends. Being creative
in classes doesn’t mean reinventing the wheel,
just tweaking it slightly. For example, take a popular
reality show like Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
and create a class called “Extreme Makeover: Fitness
Style,” where the focus is on challenging, or
“extreme,” exercises. This type of pop-culture
spin creates an in-the-now experience for everyone.
Prop It Up. Do you have a “toolbox”
filled with interesting, unique props? This is indispensable
for creative class design. Props don’t need to
be complicated or costly. One caveat: Avoid using too
many pieces at once. Choose two or three and keep them
safely tucked away, but close enough for efficient class
flow.
Create a Theme. Thematic classes are
another way to go. Draw from seasonal dates, like St.
Patrick’s Day, or specific music styles. A fitness
class structured around a particular sporting activity
also lends itself to imaginative workouts.
A Change of Scenery. The outdoors
can be an inspiring place to teach a session—or
even a small part of it, like the strength or stretch
component. A fresh view or location generates renewed
energy and a creative environment.
A New Twist. If you’re bored
with step or uninspired by core training, alter your
approach and use the same equipment in different ways.
Partner Power. Set aside a couple
of hours each month to buddy up with a fellow instructor
and brainstorm new choreography. Host an internal workshop
day—an opportunity for you and a few other instructors
to present to each other. Co-instructing is also a fabulous
way to add oomph to a workout.
Be adventurous while you challenge yourself and stretch
your imagination. Even if your idea doesn’t fly,
the attempt at variety will keep your classes fresh.
Your students will be inspired to attend your next class
and you will be motivated to teach it—a winning
combination for everyone.
Read more inspiring tips in “Up the Creativity
Factor” in the February 2005 issue of IDEA
Fitness Journal or online at www.ideafit.com/article_archive_index.asp.
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