Frustrated by fitness? This might be for you

Sometimes it can seem as though the number of reasons why workout regimens don’t work can be longer than reasons why they do.

Whether it is lack of motivation, injury, boredom or life commitments that take away from your desire or availability, trainer Ericka Pomatto says working out in a group could be a huge boon for those looking to find what works for them.

Pomatto, who has been a fitness instructor for nearly 30 years and works at the Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital Health and Wellness Center, says group fitness has always been a passion.

“For me, the very first time I ever took an aerobics class, I knew I wanted to teach,” she says. “I felt the energy in the room and loved feeling all together for one common purpose with the instruction of the teacher to motivate and guide you.”

She compares the setting of a group classroom – or band of friends who go on walks together, or any group working on their fitness together – to sitting around a dinner table with people on a diet. Though some may want to falter, if even a few decide to stick to the diet, it’s much easier for others to, as well.

After a few sessions, even a room full of strangers can become like a friend group, Pomatto says, keeping each other accountable and driving one another to go through the full workout.

“The more you can regularly attend a specific class or club, the more it can turn into your community,” she says. “You get to know people in class. And I try hard to get to know them, as well – checking in on them, suggesting new classes, going right up to them to find out about them to put them at ease.”

She also encourages people to shop around for their preferred exercise format, instructor and facility. People should feel safe and as if their well-being is cared for, and having a real connection with what they’re doing. Switching things up if and when classes get boring has saved many a fitness plan.

“It’s a good way to get out of your comfort zone and normal exercise routine,” she says. “It can give you some exposure to what’s out there, what you like, and it allows you to explore with someone trained to motivate you and lead you safely.”