Why Group Classes Are the Perfect Supplement to Strength Training

I work with a trainer twice a week, and that will always be the foundation of my fitness routine. Strength training has changed my body, my confidence, and how I move through the world. But as much as I believe in lifting heavy and lifting smart, I’ve also learned something important along the way:

Strength training doesn’t have to live in isolation.

Group classes play a huge role in my overall fitness—and honestly, in my consistency.

Women Are Social (And That Matters)

Let’s start with the obvious: women are social creatures. We thrive in community. We show up differently when we know people are expecting us.

Group classes provide something that solo workouts just can’t—connection. There’s conversation before class, encouragement during class, and that “we did it” feeling afterward. That social interaction isn’t fluff; it’s fuel.

On days when motivation is low, knowing I’ll see familiar faces is often what gets me through the gym doors.

Accountability You Can’t Ignore

Group classes hold you accountable in a very real way. When you miss a session, people notice. When you show up consistently, you’re part of the fabric of the class.

That accountability matters—especially as we get older and life gets busy. It’s easy to skip a workout when no one is waiting for you. It’s a lot harder when you know your spot is usually right there in the room.

My Weekly Group Class Routine

I currently take two Silver Sneakers classes per week, and I’ll be honest—this is not your average Silver Sneakers experience.

Our regular instructor challenges us. Every. Single. Time.

It becomes very obvious when we have a substitute teacher. The class is usually easier, and without fail, the sub is surprised by how strong we are. That doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because we’ve been consistently pushed—safely, but intentionally.

A typical Silver Sneakers class is structured like this:

• 30 minutes of cardio
• 20 minutes of strength training
• 10 minutes of balance work and cool-down

That combination is incredibly valuable. Cardio for heart health, strength to support muscle and bone, and balance work that becomes more important with every passing year.

In addition to that, I take a class called Uplift once per week, which focuses on strength training using weights and bands. It complements my personal training perfectly and gives me another opportunity to challenge my muscles in a group setting.

How It All Works Together

Between:

• Working with my trainer twice a week
• Two Silver Sneakers classes
• One Uplift class

…I’m meeting all of my needs for strength training and getting enough cardio to support my overall health.

But just as important as the physical benefits are the mental and emotional ones. These classes keep me consistent. They keep me accountable. And they make going to the gym something I actually look forward to.

Strength Is Better in Community

I don’t see group classes as a replacement for strength training with a trainer—I see them as a powerful supplement.

They add variety.

They add accountability.

They add community.

And for women especially, that combination is hard to beat.

If you’re strength training but struggling with consistency—or if the gym feels lonely or intimidating—consider adding a group class or two to your week. You might be surprised how much stronger you feel…in more ways than one.

This is a picture of our annual Halloween Senior Sneakers class/party in 2024.