routines are of course essential, but the answer
actually lies in your capacity to entertain your
participants while they’re working out.
When you keep participants entertained,
they don’t have time to look at the clock, be
self-conscious or think about how much effort
a certain move is.
Being entertaining during class requires
creativity. It might sound strange, but in
my introduction I sometimes describe the
upcoming class like a dinner menu: an entrée
with some heavy beats, a big hearty main,
and a cooldown with some yummy stretches
for dessert. This makes the class sound like
an unmissable treat. Don’t say things like,
‘And I have some 50s music for our older
participants’. Make it clear that every single
moment in your class is for everyone to enjoy.
Don’t be afraid to do things like pick up an
imaginary microphone and encourage your
participants to sing along. Not everyone will
sing, but it might humour them. Gestures like
this engage your participants and keep them
open to trying a range of different things.
It is worth noting that you need to also
sell your class to your participants. If you
don’t believe that your participants will like
your class plan, then they probably won’t.
Us humans are quite attuned to other’s
emotions and can sense an instructor’s lack
of confidence in their program. This affects
the participants’ perception of the class
because if you don’t like it, then why should
they? Simply being enthusiastic and energetic
will help to convince your participants that
coming to your class was an excellent choice,
because enthusiasm is contagious.
5. A class for all, by all
Make it clear that everyone is a crucial part of your class, regardless of
age and ability. There are very simple ways to achieve this. The first is to
be adaptable. For example, some classes may not like a certain song,
even if it’s a hit in another class. Therefore, it’s important to note what
doesn’t work, and implement alternatives when necessary.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, when it comes to creating
a class that is a hit with all ages and abilities, make sure that you are
approachable to all. Encourage participants to make song requests, talk
to participants before and after class, introduce yourself to newcomers;
learn their names and make eye contact during class. These seemingly
minor actions reinforce to participants that no matter their age or ability,
this is the class for them.
Marlee King
A certified aquatic fitness and licensed Zumba® instructor,
Marlee holds a PhD in Health Psychology and is an academic at Western
Sydney University. Her experience in fitness, combined with her interest in the
mind-body connection, gives her a deep understanding of her participants.
12 – 14 APRIL 2019 / ICC, SYDNEY
THE FITNESS INDUSTRY’S BIGGEST WEEKEND
IS BACK AND NETWORK MEMBERS SAVE!
Marlee will be sharing her aqua know-how in her FILEX session:
• Aqua for all ages
Go to FILEX.com.au to check out the full program, featuring sessions
on everything from PT and Business, to Group Fitness and Nutrition.
Network Members get the best available prices: simply register for the
Member Rate using your Network Membership number.
NETWORK AUTUMN 2019 | 25