Nervous about group fitness? Sherry Perez answers your questions
We sat down with Sherry Perez, Y Movement Lab Manager, to answer some of the questions that might be running through your head before trying a class. Maybe you’re worried about bringing the right equipment or not knowing the choreography. Maybe you’re even questioning if you’re fit enough to participate. The truth is, the Y has classes for everyone. Sometimes, the hardest part of the workout is simply showing up.
Did you know? Sherry helps lead the Y Movement Lab, the team behind the development of the YMCA’s signature group fitness experiences. Our classes are designed to make movement welcoming, engaging and accessible for people at every stage of their fitness journey.
Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions.
Do I need to be ‘fit’ before I try group fitness?
Sherry: No. You come to group fitness to improve your physical fitness. You don’t have to get fit before you get there.
We know there can be obstacles to wellness and that everyone is at a different place in their fitness journey. Our classes and instructors are prepared to work with a wide range of abilities so members can participate at their own pace.
At the end of the day, if you leave feeling better than when you came, you’re doing great. Maybe you pushed yourself physically, reached a personal goal, or simply walked out with a smile. Those all matter.
Should I tell the instructor that I’m new?
Sherry: Absolutely. If you can, come a few minutes early and introduce yourself while the instructor is setting up.
There can be so many questions when you walk into a new class. Do I need weights? Should I grab a mat? What equipment does everyone else have? Talking to the instructor gives you a chance to ask those questions and get comfortable before you begin.
Your instructor can explain what you'll need, what to expect, and how to move at your own pace. And if you don't get the chance to introduce yourself beforehand, that's OK, too. Many instructors will check whether anyone is new and welcome them to the class.
In my YMCA Arriba classes, for example, I tell newcomers not to worry about what anyone else is doing. We're all moving our bodies differently. If you go the wrong way, that's OK. We laugh a lot. We have a good time.
Movement doesn't have to look the same for everyone.
Is there a good class to start with if I’m a beginner?
Sherry: Start with something you think you'll enjoy.
There's no silver bullet when it comes to exercise. You could find a workout that promises incredible results, but if you absolutely hate doing it, you're probably not going to want to come back.
Getting to class can be the hardest part. Once you're there, your instructor guides you through the experience. You don't have to plan the workout. You can just show up and move.
So, think about what you already enjoy. If enjoy Pilates-inspired strength and mobility, you might love YMCA TotalTone. If music gets you moving, give Arriba a try. Love a country song? Try YMCA Line Dance. If you enjoy lifting weights but haven't done it in a while, YMCA MuscleFit might be a great place to start.
First, find something you enjoy. Then focus on showing up consistently. You can always adjust your routine later.
Why do people keep coming back to group fitness?
Sherry: Because it's fun!
Group fitness takes so much of the guesswork out of working out. You know when your workout starts, how long it is, and what kind of class you're walking into. Then an instructor who loves what they do is there to guide you through it.
But there's another part of the experience that's just as important: people notice when you're there.
If you come every week and then miss a class, your instructor might ask where you were. You start recognizing the person who usually stands beside you. When the pushups get tough, someone looks over and says, “You've got this.”
When you’re working out by yourself, there is no one to give you a high five. We show up for one another.
There's something powerful about being around people who are all trying to do their best. You might not think you're inspiring anyone, but someone across the room could be looking at you and thinking, I wish I were that strong. That’s why people keep coming back.
What do you wish every new member knew before their first class?
Sherry: Know that you're capable. You're more capable than you believe you are, and you're worth being in that room.
And if you don't feel that way yet, just get to the class. We'll keep believing in you until you believe in yourself.
That's the goal. We want people to believe they can do it. Until you fully believe it, we'll be here to remind you.
Maybe your first move is simply showing up.
You don't need to know every move before your first group fitness class. You don't need to keep up with the person next to you. And you don't need to become “fit enough” before you walk through the door.
Start with something that sounds fun. Introduce yourself to your instructor. Move at your own pace. Then see how you feel when the class is over.
You might find a class you can't wait to take again.
Ready to make your move?
A YMCA of Greater Toronto membership provides access to more than just a few weights and a treadmill.
We offer hundreds of group fitness including, including eight signature programs developed in-house by the Y Movement Lab, and included in your membership. Classes are a great way to get in a full workout without going through the mental gymnastics of planning it yourself. All you have to do is show up and follow along.
Find a class you enjoy, meet instructors who are ready to support you, and discover what it feels like to move with a community.
This fall 2026 is a great time to get started. Join the YMCA today and save $100 with no join fee.
Your first class is waiting.
Our 10 unique group fitness classes:
- YMCA AquaFit
- YMCA Arriba
- YMCA Bootcamp
- YMCA CycleFit
- YMCA FlowFit
- YMCA Gravity
- YMCA Line Dance
- YMCA MuscleFit
- YMCA TotalFit
- YMCA TotalTone
