Working out isn’t always some people’s idea of “fun.” For some, working out alone at home or at the gym can feel isolating, whether it’s lack of a routine, accountability, consistency, motivation, confidence, or otherwise. However, for some, working out in a group setting is like hitting a power up button in a video game. You’ve got someone knowledgeable leading you in the right direction, and a community cheering you on as you grow beyond your comfort zone—together! Both mentally and physically, it can be a true game changer.
Shelby Reno, Owner, CKO Kickboxing, has seen firsthand how group workouts transform not just bodies, but minds and lives.
“Working out amongst others supercharges mental health by releasing those feel-good endorphins in a shared environment, where encouragement from peers turns a tough session into an uplifting aspect of day-to-day life,” Reno said. “Sometimes it’s knowing you’re not alone.”
Reno recalled how CKO, which offers heavy bag group classes, strength and recovery formats, and other one-on-one options, has been the initial setting for many friendships. “Regulars become friends, sharing tips, celebrating milestones, and even supporting each other outside the gym.”
Ahmé Bovée, Owner and Creator, Bovée Pilates, believes spaces like her studio matter now more than ever.
“Right now, the world can feel loud, busy, and sometimes divided. The studio becomes a place where people come together in a very human way,” Bovée said. “Women today are really craving what many people call a third space—somewhere that isn’t work and isn’t home. Group fitness brings together two powerful things: movement and connection. Before long, it becomes more than a workout. It becomes the place where people refill their cup.”
Bovée’s studio teaches Pilates “The Bovée Way”—which is a positive, intelligent approach to movement that works with the body’s natural design instead of fighting against it. Among the studio’s offerings are small group classes using specialized equipment like Reformers and Towers, allowing clients to get a lot of personal attention while still enjoying the energy of a group. “We see it every day; people might come in for the workout, but they stay for the community.”
Diane Smith, Owner, Revolve Cycle Studio – Ada, sees the power of group fitness manifest in the way people show up for each other at her studio.
“In today’s world, many people try to ‘go it alone’ when it comes to health and fitness. But the truth is, community accelerates progress,” Smith explained. “The culture becomes one of support rather than comparison. We also see very real, measurable results. Riders regularly report improvements in their health metrics, stronger cardiovascular fitness, and increased power output. Many share that the numbers from their doctor look better, their clothes fit differently, and their overall energy has improved. Just as important, they tell us they feel mentally clearer, more focused, and more capable of handling the stresses of daily life.”
Revolve, which offers boutique indoor cycling and hybrid experiences designed for a variety of training styles and personalities in a group setting, is a place where Smith says riders can feel seen, not exposed. “What a gift it is to step into a space where joy, music, encouragement, and positive energy are waiting for you.”
Stacie Thomas, Studio Owner, barre3 Grand Rapids + Wyoming, says the best way to stay consistent with movement is to find something you genuinely enjoy and feel connected to.
“Fitness should feel good and support your life, not take away from it,” she said. “There’s so much power in movement, and it’s amplified in a group setting. When you’re surrounded by others, you see what’s possible in different ways. You might see someone take a modification to honor their body or someone challenge themselves to go a little further. It creates space for you to get exactly what you need from each workout, without comparison—just awareness.”
The barre3 workout, Thomas explained, is designed to support the whole person through low-impact, functional movement, helping you feel balanced, strong, and connected to your body. Various class offerings blend together elements from mindfulness and cardio to strength and mobility.
“[The power of group fitness] shows up in the small, intentional moments … Clients feel seen, supported, and encouraged to listen to their bodies. Over time, that builds trust, both in the community and within themselves.”
Check out local Parks & Recreation Departments! GR Parks & Rec, for example, offers a range of group classes, from high-energy cycling, to Zumba, to strength training, to Pilates, and more.
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
This article originally appeared in the Summer ’26 issue of West Michigan Woman.
