Have you been wanting to join the group fitness craze but you’re unsure of what to expect? Or maybe you’re on the 101 Freeway heading to a Barry’s 101 class and just want to prepare yourself (stop driving and surfing!) Superstar SoCal trainer Nancy Anderson has you covered. Before you get Barry’d, bury your head in this list of the best ways to crush your class right out of the gate.

1. Listen to the run down before you run down.

Don’t zone out when the trainer or staffer is going over the format of the class (especially the treadmill portion). This pre-workout protocol will help you avoid getting totally lost in class. Sure, you could cheat off your neighbor, but with your luck they don’t know WTF they’re doing either and you’ll both be wrong, just like in school.

2. Start in the slow lane.

Fitness is a marathon, not a sprint (but oh, there will be sprinting). Start at a slower jog pace and with lighter weights and work your way up. This will help you nail the form and get the most out of each moment of class.

3. Pay attention to the forecast.

When a psychic or a weather reporter gives a forecast, it can be hit or miss. But when the trainer tells you what’s coming up, there’s 100% chance of getting hot and sweaty.  Knowing what’s next on the floor and tread will help you to have course knowledge so you can pace yourself and keep the workout flowing.

4. Follow the course map.

The trainer will go over basics of form correction: tighten your core, keep a proud chest, push your lower back down, etc. So even though you are in the zone/staring at your gorgeous reflection/praying for this sprint to end, try to listen and execute these tips for the best and most effective workout.

5. Adjust your speed.

Even if you have to modify the speeds called out by your trainer, try to add at least a little (even a .1 bump totally counts) when the trainer says to run faster. This is necessary to achieve the proper heart rate levels for high intensity interval training (HIIT) and get the fitness benefits that come with it. HIIT gives you a higher calorie burn in a shorter time, and a faster metabolism that leads to calorie AND fat burn that continues for the 24 hours following the workout. Other side effects include: athletic endurance, increased awesomeness and sex appeal.

6. Dress for success.

That means come to work wearing comfortable workout attire and proper running shoes. Not flip flops (yes, that’s happened). Don’t forget to accessorize with a bottle of water so you stay hydrated during class. Wearing the right gear keeps you safe in a workout where there are lots of moving parts and weights.

6.5 Run into a Barry’s 101 class.

If you’re in L.A. in April and June, we’re offering bi-weekly classes geared towards Barry’s newcomers. Get more info on our Barry’s 101 page.

BIO

Nancy Anderson is passionate and knowledgeable fitness professional with more than nine years of experience in developing, promoting and delivering exceptional personal and group fitness training both in-person and through her online training programs. She has earned a Master’s Degree in Exercise Science and is a certified Pre & Post Natal Specialist. In addition to training at Barry’s Bootcamp, Nancy is a lead online coach on the PearSports Fitness App. Nancy brings passion and inspiration to her workouts leaving her clients feeling drenched and empowered.

Credentials:

M.S. Exercise Science
ACE Certified Personal Trainer
TRX Specialist
Pre & Post Natal Specialist

Follow her on social media:

Instagram: @NancyAndersonFit
Twitter: @NancyAndersonFit
facebook.com/nancy.andersonfit