One-on-one vs. group training: Which personal training program is best for you?

If you are thinking about jump-starting your current workout routine or have recently decided to kick-start a healthy lifestyle, there are several decisions you’ll need to make. These include what type of exercises to do, which areas of the body to focus on, which gym to join, what diet changes to make — the list goes on.

Should you decide to take getting fit seriously, one of the more critical decisions you must make is whether to hire a personal trainer.

Why hire a personal trainer?

Working out with a personal trainer lets you learn from a fitness professional’s expertise. They can:

• Assess your current training program to see whether it is effective or require tweaking
• Keep you in proper form throughout entire exercise sets and reps to ensure that you are hitting the intended muscle groups
• Prevent any pain or injury as you perform more strenuous exercises and/or lift heavier equipment — when not performed properly, certain exercises can tear or strain your muscles, tendons, and joints
• Keep you motivated and hold you accountable for your fitness goals, as well as to assist you in tracking your progress

Personal trainers or coaches can also teach you better techniques, making sure your training routine is well-rounded — ideally comprised of cardio, strength training, and core training — and that you’re doing them the right way, all the time.

Clearly, there are numerous benefits to working out with a personal trainer. If you’ve decided to invest in a healthier lifestyle, make it worth your while by getting expert advice. Once you’ve decided to work out with a personal trainer, you’ll then need to choose between one-on-one (1:1) or group training.

One-on-one (1:1) training

One-on-one personal training is what many people have in mind when they think of “personal training,” and it is indeed a fantastic way to get into shape. With 1:1 training, you benefit from a training program that’s customized to your needs, with a professional trainer guiding you throughout an entire session. This setup also helps you stay disciplined and focused, and ensures that you make the most of your time at the gym.

1:1 training is best if you:

• Want individualized programs, whether it be for weight loss or for bulking up
• Are preparing for a special event such as a marathon or any sports competition, one that requires personal training sessions with highly intense workouts designed to achieve faster results but with fewer risks for physical injuries
• Have particular needs due to a former illness or injury, a phobia, or other medical conditions that may affect your fitness routines
• Are only getting started and unsure of what to do

Consider other options if you:

• Would rather work out with a group that has similar fitness goals and are on the same fitness level
• Feel that you don’t need a highly customized fitness program
• Prefer personal training options at lower prices
• Want to exercise with accountability partners other than your trainer

Group training

On the other hand, there’s group fitness training in which you and a workout partner share the expertise of a trainer who designs a workout program for both of you. There’s a variety of group training programs you can choose from.

In a duo training program, you still benefit from a customized training program and is particularly ideal if you and your workout partner share the same goal or are at the same fitness level. Your trainer may not even have to create different programs for the two of you.

In any case, a duo training program still offers some flexibility and customizability. In a larger group setting, however, the level of customization decreases and the program becomes more generalized.

Group training is best if you:

• Tend to be motivated by the energy from a friendly crowd
• Prefer to partner up with one or more accountability partners
• Wish to pay lower costs for personal training

Consider other options if you:

• Have highly specific fitness goals
• Prefer to receive more personal attention
• Require more control over your training schedule, pace, or location

Know which training program is right for you by setting fitness goals. Ultimately, it all boils down to your preferences, budget, and the availability of training programs in your area. If you’re looking for personal training programs in the Eado, Heights, and surrounding areas, talk to us about your needs.

Ready to decide between 1:1 or group training? Our talented coaches and independent trainers are ready to help. Call us today to get started!

‍