Walking into a new-to-you fitness class can feel daunting. In fact, even thinking about navigating an unfamiliar public environment and not knowing what to expect is enough to keep many from trying the experience at all: Will I know how to do the moves? Will I be able to keep up? Will others be judging me? These are all questions that may swirl in your mind.
If this feels relatable for you, you’re not alone, according to Emma Graves, class collection brand specialist and group fitness instructor at Life Time in Chicago, Ill. “It’s normal to feel intimidated or unsure when trying something new,” she says. “The experience of being in a public space can often come with a bit of pressure to know what you’re doing or behave or appear in a certain way. But remember, everyone experiences a first time in class. I promise [that] your instructor and fellow class-goers are excited you showed up to move alongside them; they’re focused on how they’re performing the moves — not how you are.”
If you’re interested in getting involved in Life Time classes but are nervous about joining the world of in-person group fitness, Graves recommends sampling an on-demand class or two in the Life Time app first.
“One advantage of Life Time’s on-demand classes is that they strip away the factor of being in a public space, as well as potential worries about what others are thinking — although no one is really judging you at Life Time!” she says. “They are also a great way to become familiar with the Life Time brand of classes in your own environment and get acquainted with the moves or build up a base fitness level.”
Inclusivity Is a Priority
Life Time’s on-demand classes are designed to be inclusive and accessible. “When we put together on-demand classes,” Graves explains, “we keep in mind that many people will be taking the class with a mindset of: ‘Where do I get started?’”
That’s why on-demand classes include modifications for beginners, such as doing a squat with a calf raise rather than a full squat jump. “In every on-demand class, instructors are aiming to empower participants,” adds Graves. “It’s always meant to feel uplifting for participants and encourage them to find what serves their body best.”
But that inclusivity doesn’t stop in the app; it’s a priority for instructors in person at the club, too. “As an instructor, I love when members come up to me and share when they’re new or nervous,” Graves says. “It gives me a better understanding of how I can support them.”
In both on-demand and in-person classes at Life Time, instructors are available to provide guidance. “Either way, you’re going to have a thoughtful coach who has your back,” adds Graves. “However, once you’re comfortable joining an in-person class, your instructor can provide real-time feedback to help you level up even more. For example, if you’re performing a move in a way that might risk injury, they’re going to come over and adjust your form to keep you safe.” (Learn more: “Why Life Time Classes Are for Everyone.”)
From the App to the Studio
If you’re not sure which class to start with, Graves paired several on-demand classes with their similar in-person studio options, arranged by fitness interest. First, try the on-demand class, and when you’re ready, you can segue to the in-person experience.
Interested in strength classes?
Try this on-demand class: LIFT Total Body with Danica
Length: 45 minutes
The exercises performed in this class challenge the whole body, featuring a blend of isolated movements and compound strength-training exercises. Dumbbells are used in certain movements for added resistance.
Find it in the Life Time app under On Demand Classes > Strength > LIFT Total Body with Danica
Progress to the in-person class: LIFT Strictly Strength
Length: 45 or 60 minutes
This class is all about building muscular endurance. It features a series of moderate-resistance, high-rep moves to put your full-body strength and endurance to the test. The goal for each class is to lift a little heavier and to feel a little stronger than before.
Reserve a spot in class in the Life Time app.
Interested in cardio classes?
Try this on-demand class: DANZE and Tone with Jeimy
Length: 45 minutes
This energizing class blends dance with light resistance training that uses dumbbells and a resistance band. Follow the choreography to enhance cardiovascular health and improve muscle tone — no prior dance experience is needed.
Find it in the Life Time app under On Demand Classes > Cardio > DANZE and Tone with Jeimy
Progress to the in-person class: DANZE Jam
Length: 45 to 60 minutes
Sweat and move to the music in this cardio dance party workout. No dance experience required. You’ll shake and groove with easy-to-follow moves choreographed to an epic playlist of songs. Leave class feeling empowered, confident, and energized.
Reserve a spot in class in the Life Time app.
Interested in restorative yoga?
Try this on-demand class: Restorative Yoga with Tory
Length: 30 minutes
This slow, meditative, yin-yoga practice is intended to create greater mobility in your joints while encouraging concentration on your breath and challenging you to relax your mind.
Find it in the Life Time app under On Demand Classes > Yoga > Restorative Yoga with Tory
Progress to the in-person class: SURRENDER YIN
Length: 45, 60, or 75 minutes
This is also a slow, meditative yin-yoga practice. You’ll enhance the mobility in your joints while mindfully stressing your body’s connective tissues and challenging the calmness of your mind. The instructor guides you through a series of yin poses, encouraging you to focus on your breath as you hold the poses for extended periods.
Reserve a spot in class in the Life Time app.
Interested in slow-flow yoga classes?
Try the on-demand class: ROOT Slow Flow with Jessie
Length: 30 minutes
This class emphasizes foundational yoga postures with sustained holds to enhance strength, flexibility, and mental clarity. It helps deepen your connection to your body and breath, resulting in a grounded and revitalizing feeling.
Find it in the Life Time app under On Demand Classes > Yoga > ROOT Slow Flow with Jessie
Progress to the in-person class: ROOT HATHA
Length: 45, 60, or 75 minutes
This is a slower-paced, beginner-friendly yoga class that provides the opportunity to breathe deeply as you build steadiness in each posture. This Hatha yoga experience can help you feel more grounded while also inspiring acute muscle engagement to create greater stability in the joints of your body.
Reserve a spot in class in the Life Time app.
Interested in barre classes?
Try the on-demand class: Barre Fusion with Frances
Length: 20 minutes
This class offers a blend of strength, cardio, balance, and mobility. Dance experience isn’t necessary; while a barre is typically used, you’re welcome to use a counter or chair as an alternative.
Find it in the Life Time app under On Demand Classes > Barre > Barre Fusion with Frances
Progress to the in-person class: LIFE BARRE Fusion
Length: 45 or 60 minutes
This class also combines cardio, strength, balance, and mobility exercises, including ones that are choreographed for moves both on and off the barre. It’s an all-in-one approach that’s designed to work your entire body, as well as to help you better connect with it through mindful, purposeful movement. Each class features a variety of props to amplify the muscle burn.
Reserve a spot in class in the Life Time app.
Interested in active-aging classes?
Try this on-demand class: ARORA Strength Brain Teasers with Kaylee
Length: 20 minutes
Build strength and sharpen your mind. This healthy-aging class combines effective total-body movements with fun brain teasers to enhance physical and mental agility.
Find it in the Life Time app under On Demand Classes > Active Aging > ARORA Strength Brain Teasers with Kaylee
Progress to the in-person class: ARORA Strength
Length: 45 minutes
This strength class is designed with the beginner in mind and focuses on helping you master the basics of light-to-moderate strength training for all muscle groups. Equipment includes barbells, dumbbells, and resistance bands.
Reserve a spot in class in the Life Time app.
Note: Class offerings vary by club location.
