Beyond Reps and Sets: The Social Benefits of Gym Membership 

by Christine Fisher 

If you’re looking for one of the most effective ways to improve your health, lose extra pounds, reduce stress, and increase zest and vitality, working out in a group setting is key. Whether it’s a group fitness class or utilizing weight equipment and cardio machines, the atmosphere of a fitness center provides the components needed for most of us to be consistent and see results in a safe manner. 

The benefits of a group setting inherently address the most common reasons people drop out of an exercise program: boredom, overwhelmed with choices, not knowing what to do, dissatisfaction, and no sense of belonging. 

“Those things are not an issue when it comes to exercising with others in a group setting and being led by a qualified exercise specialist,” explains Suzy Trahan, LDN, RDN, director of Dynamic Dimensions Fitness Centers of West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital. “Because of the training and direction we provide, our members are confident in their workout routines. From group fitness classes to our cardio and weight areas, members feel the camaraderie and develop a rapport with each other; they benefit from the sense of community.” 

Dynamic Dimensions Fitness takes seriously their role in providing a safe, professional environment for exercise and wellness. The coaches for group fitness classes are certified in the classes they teach. Exercise specialists in the cardio and weight areas have degrees in health and fitness. 

“Personal training has become an integral part of our members’ life success because we start with assessing functional movement first,” Trahan explains. “Our trainers build workouts based on needs to ensure that we improve quality of movement and therefore quality of life for our members. If you are looking to improve your golf swing, your running stride, or just move better in everyday life, we have trainers who have the knowledge and expertise to help.” 

Music makes a big impact in motivation for exercise. Whether it’s on the gym floor or in a group fitness class, the beat and tone of the music is invigorating. Researchers have found that music can improve athletic performance by delaying fatigue and increasing work capacity. Studies show that the effects of music lead to higher-than-expected levels of endurance, power, productivity, or strength. “We’ve all felt the fun of moving to a great song,” says Trahan. “Research proves the theory that the right music can be a great motivator in fitness. We incorporate music with the right beat and tone to enhance the workout experience.” 

The social component is another beneficial aspect. The connections among other members can be just the thing you need to get you there on those days when you just don’t have the motivation yourself. Working out regularly with friends creates an expectation and a built-in accountability system to get you to the gym. 

“What I love to see are the many members who hold each other accountable just by finding joy in movement together,” Trahan says. “It’s not a competition, but rather a level of compassion and caring that motivates them to be at the gym consistently and that’s where they really start to see success.” 

Variety is another key to the success. From group fitness classes focusing on flexibility and balance, cardio endurance, and muscle strength, to the wide variety of cardio and weight equipment and a heated pool, cross training automatically occurs when members utilize all that the fitness center has to offer. 

“As human beings, we want to be part of something,” Trahan says. “It’s motivating to walk into the fitness center and the staff and other members call you by name and are genuinely glad to see you. We foster a family atmosphere because we truly care about the health and well-being of our members. When gym employees and other members know you and encourage you, it makes a difference in your compliance and commitment to a healthier lifestyle. As fitness becomes a habit, that’s when results happen. Being a member of a fitness center is a big factor in achieving fitness goals.” 

To learn more, visit dynamicfitnesscenters.com.