If you’ve decided to take your health seriously, personal training is a sure-fire way to maximize your results. Many trainers offer two kinds of personal training: one-on-one private training and small group training. But which is a better fit for you? Choosing the right kind of personal training can increase your fitness progress and commitment to change.
WHAT IS ONE-ON-ONE PERSONAL TRAINING?
One-on-one training is what most people imagine when considering personal training. Your trainer will individually coach you and craft personalized exercise and nutrition plans towards your goals.
BENEFITS OF ONE-ON-ONE TRAINING
More attention to detail: In one-on-one training, you have your trainer’s undivided attention. Your exercise form will be monitored constantly, resulting in better performance and less risk of injury.
More personalized experience: Your trainer can tailor your fitness program exclusively to your goals and needs without having to accommodate anyone else.
Injuries or body pain: If you have any type of aches/pains or pre-existing injuries it will be advantageous to train one-on-one as your workout will be customized to address any problem areas.
DOWNSIDES OF ONE-ON-ONE TRAINING
Cost: One-on-one training is often more expensive than small group training. But what you sacrifice in cost, you gain in increased attention with your trainer.
Less Motivation: If you’re competitive, the lack of peers to challenge you can become unmotivating, making training difficult.
IS ONE-ON-ONE TRAINING A GOOD FIT FOR ME?
You are a beginner: If you have little to no training experience, one-on-one training allows your trainer to spend more time educating you on exercises and proper form. This will save you time, increase your results, and build your confidence.
You want reassurance: Your trainer will be watching you at all times. You can trust that your trainer won’t let you hurt yourself or push you too hard.
You want a smaller audience: While some people thrive working out around people, others feel intimidated and avoid setting foot in the gym. One-on-one training means there is only one pair of eyes on you, which may be the security and comfort you need to get started on your fitness journey.
You’re an experienced athlete with specific goals: While one-on-one training is great for beginners, it’s also beneficial for experienced clients. If you are an athlete or need training for a competition, one-on-one training can tailor programs to reach your goals, whereas a small group program cannot be as specific.
WHAT IS SMALL GROUP TRAINING?
BENEFITS OF SMALL GROUP TRAINING
High-energy Atmosphere: Working out with a small group provides more excitement and competition to your workouts. You won’t want to slack off if your partners are working hard!
More Motivation: If you decide to skip a session, your group will know! Small group training adds peer accountability so you keep coming back.
Team Work Exercises: Some trainers incorporate team workouts that push members to work hard for one another.
For example, a trainer has you perform medicine ball slams for 20 reps. Your partner is going full speed on the exercise bike and can only stop once you complete those 20 reps. After you hit 20, you and your partner switch roles.
When your partner is depending on you to get done fast, you’re more likely to push yourself for their sake!
You Save Money: If you’re budget conscious but still want to invest in personal training, small group training is often cheaper than one-on-one training.
DOWNSIDES OF SMALL GROUP TRAINING
Less attention: Because small groups have more people, trainers monitor you every 10 seconds, rather than constantly. Trainers also have less time to educate you on exercises and form. You may be inclined to slack off since your trainer isn’t always watching!
Less specialized: In a small group, trainers have to accommodate for a wider audience, which means your goals may not be as specifically targeted.
If you have injuries of preexisting conditions, the other members of your small group likely won’t have the same struggles. While a trainer won’t have you perform workouts that compromise your health, you won’t get as much personalized programming to overcome those hurdles.
IS SMALL GROUP TRAINING A GOOD FIT FOR ME?
You thrive on team motivation: If you’re motivated by group energy, then small group training will push you harder and therefore achieve greater results.
You want a more social experience: A good small group brings people closer together. If you enjoy seeing your peers, it’s much easier to come back and train consistently.
Budget Conscious: Small group training is an excellent way to train without breaking the bank. If you’re unsure about committing long-term, small group training is less of a financial risk if you decide to stop.
WRAPPING IT UP
Personal training is a life-changing investment. If your trainer offers both styles of training, consider the factors of each so you make the best decision for your goals and personality.
Formula Fitness offers premium one-on-one and small group personal training. We seek to place you in a space to thrive and reach your goals without compromise. We audit your opinions and concerns, ensuring that you are matched with a trainer or small group that serves you.
Interested in training with us? Check out our pricing page and reach out to our team to begin your fitness journey.