In the dynamic environment of a group fitness class, clear communication is absolutely essential. Without a well-structured plan to convey important information, our words can sometimes get lost between the, “good jobs” and “woohoos.”
Here are 7 strategies you can start implementing immediately to enhance your classes:
1) Clarify & Simplify: Use clear and concise language. Avoid jargon, unnecessary words, or overly technical terms that might confuse participants.
For instance, instead of saying, “Okay, class, now we are going to move on to first position, so put your heels together with your toes slightly apart, about the size of a pizza slice. Then go ahead and lift your heels up and then reconnect them at the top. Then bend and straighten your knees.”
Try, “First position is next. Face the barre. Heels together, toes apart. Lift heels. Reconnect. Slide down your imaginary wall.”
2) Visual and Verbal Cues: Combine visual and verbal cues. Visual cues, like pointing to the body part that is being worked or indicating the direction participants should face, makes your class easier to follow and frees you up to provide other important cues.
3) Layer & Progress: Break down complex movements into smaller, manageable steps. When teaching a combination, introduce one move at a time, allowing students time to practice each piece before adding more complexity.
4) Pre-plan Modifications & Progressions: Think ahead about how to modify and progress specific exercises. This allows you to seamlessly integrate these variations into your choreography, ensuring a smooth flow that leaves everyone feeling successful!
5) Use Imagery: Create mental images for your participants with vivid descriptions. For example, when instructing a squat, you can say, “Imagine you’re sitting back into a chair.” During side-lying at the barre, you could cue, “Reach your leg long like you are trying to touch the side wall with your big toe.” For downdog, try, “Slide your shoulder blades down your back like you are trying to put them into your back pockets.” This helps participants visualize the movement and perform it correctly.
6) Positive and Encouraging Language: Motivate participants with positivity. Instead of saying, “Don’t let your knees go past your toes,” try, “Keep your knees behind your toes.”
7) Individualized Feedback: Whenever possible, offer individualized feedback. Walk around the class or training session, providing specific cues and corrections based on participants’ needs and form. Always give individualized corrections off the microphone.
Effective cueing is the secret sauce to an amazing group fitness class! By refining your cueing techniques, you can help participants better understand and execute exercises, leading to more effective and enjoyable workouts.
Elevate your cueing game today, and watch your classes flourish!
