Introduction
The days of one to one PT being the only training option for clients are gone. With options for online personal training and group personal training growing in popularity over recent years, one that has gained a lot of appeal is Small Group Personal Training (SGPT). Small Group Personal Training combines the camaraderie people feel from group workouts with the personalised attention that you get in one to one. However, like any personal training style, it has its advantages and its limitations. This article will present the main pros and cons of small group personal training.
What is Small Group Personal Training?
Small Group Personal Training usually involves 3-7 participants, but in some cases allows up to 12, with sessions being coached by a qualified personal trainer. The setup allows for a more focused environment compared to larger classes, whilst being a more cost effective alternative than one to one personal training. Generally, small group personal training sessions are designed to cater to the needs of individuals within the group. The setup is great for balancing a personalised approach with the motivating group dynamic.
The Benefits of Small Group Personal Training
Personalised Attention
One of the main benefits of small group personal training sessions is the level of individualised attention you can give to clients. With a smaller group size, you can focus on each participant\’s technique, form and progression. Whilst it isn’t as intensive as one to one PT, small group training can ensure that each participant gets guidance to meet their specific goals. For example, you may suggest specific skill/movement modifications to each participant to scale to their skill level or physical capability, helping them stay on track whilst minimising injury risk.
Supportive Environment
Having clients who work out together develops a greater sense of camaraderie and accountability. Small group personal training sessions can create a more motivating environment for clients where they encourage each other to keep pushing, share progress with each other and celebrate their achievements. By making training more enjoyable for participants with a social aspect, it can help them stay more consistent with their routine. In addition to this, a group dynamic can reduce the intimidation that some people may feel with one to one sessions.
Cost Effectiveness
One of the main benefits of small group personal training is that it is very cost effective, as each unit of your time and expertise as the personal trainer is being shared out amongst a group. It can be a good option for those who are looking for more structure in their training whilst on a budget.
Variety
Small group personal training sessions often involve various training modalities, exercises and equipment. This variety can again keep the sessions more fun and engaging for participants, enabling you to progressively make sessions more challenging and keep people motivated.
The Negatives of Small Group Personal Training Sessions
Reduced Individual Attention
Whilst small group personal training sessions do provide a good level of personal attention, it is obviously not as focused as one to one coaching. As a personal trainer, your time is divided out amongst numerous clients, meaning that you often have limited capacity to address specific needs or concerns of participants. You should be aware of this as the personal trainer, and know when you might need to suggest more focused, one to one sessions. For example, if a client requires rehab exercises from injury, you would probably want to suggest dedicated one to one sessions for them in order to more closely monitor movement, safety and progress.
Various Fitness Levels
In small group personal training, your participants will often have different fitness levels, goals and technical abilities. This can make it a challenge when designing a workout suitable for everyone within a group. It is certainly possible through modifications of movement, scaling reps and changing progressions, however this can affect the pace of the sessions. As the coach, you may want to work with clients to group together people with similar abilities to improve the experience for everyone involved.
Less Flexibility in Scheduling
Small group personal training sessions are typically at fixed times to accommodate the whole group. This can be difficult for clients if they have a busy or less predictable schedule. Conversely, with one to one personal training sessions you and your clients can arrange around both parties’ availability; with small group personal training, it requires some more planning with each client.
Conclusion
To conclude, small group personal training sessions are incredible for blending many of the benefits of one to one personal training with the camaraderie and affordability of group training. If you’re looking to become a personal trainer, then be sure to take a look at our level 3 personal trainer course, CPT. Whilst you’re here be sure to take a look at all of our personal training courses, which include more advanced courses for those booking to become a functional fitness coach, and our personal training business accelerator course, GROW.