When I first started my glow up journey, I knew one thing for sure: I needed to make fitness a regular part of my life. As a new mom, my energy levels were low, and I was feeling sluggish—often struggling with basic things like climbing stairs or carrying my baby. It was clear that something needed to change. But one of the most important decisions I made was not just about starting to work out—it was about choosing the right kind of workout for me. That’s where fitness classes played a major role in helping me lose 35 pounds and completely transform my life.
Accountability and Motivation
One of the most significant factors in my fitness success was choosing group fitness classes. Initially, I thought about working out at home or going to the gym on my own. But, after some thought, I realized that group classes were what I truly needed. Group workouts helped me stay consistent, not only because I was part of a community but because I knew that people were counting on me to show up. This accountability motivated me to get out of bed early, push myself during each session, and stay committed to my goals.
Fitness classes also introduced a sense of camaraderie that made the entire experience more enjoyable. I wasn’t just showing up for myself, but for a group of people who were all working toward similar fitness goals. I saw familiar faces every time, which made me feel like I was part of a fitness family. And it wasn’t just about working out—it was about creating friendships, building connections, and having fun along the way.
Varied Workouts for a Full-Body Transformation
Another benefit of group fitness classes is the variety of workouts available. I didn’t have to worry about planning a routine or trying to figure out what exercises to do next—each class was structured and targeted different aspects of fitness, such as strength, flexibility, and cardio. For me, classes like Body Pump, Body Balance, and yoga were key to my weight loss success.
Body Pump: This class focused on strength training, and it was perfect for building lean muscle and boosting my metabolism. The mix of weightlifting and high-repetition exercises helped tone my body, and I could feel myself getting stronger each week.
Body Balance: This class combined elements of yoga and Pilates, which helped improve my flexibility and balance. It also gave me a mental break and allowed me to focus on deep breathing and relaxation. I found that doing these types of workouts helped reduce stress and contributed to my overall well-being.
Yoga: Yoga helped me become more in tune with my body. It gave me time to slow down, stretch, and take care of my mind and body. It also helped me recover from intense workouts, keeping my muscles flexible and preventing injuries.
By consistently taking these classes, I didn’t just lose weight—I also improved my overall fitness and mental health. The combination of strength training, stretching, and cardio allowed me to see results in all areas of my body, giving me the toned and fit physique I was striving for.
The Joy of Group Support
The best part about fitness classes was the support and encouragement I received from instructors and fellow participants. Instructors would cheer me on, push me to work harder, and celebrate my progress, no matter how small. This kind of positive reinforcement helped me stay focused and motivated, especially on days when I felt exhausted or discouraged.
There were also plenty of times when the other participants would share their journeys, offer advice, or simply encourage me to keep going. Knowing that we were all working toward the same goal—becoming healthier and stronger—made it easier to push through challenging workouts. This shared energy created an uplifting environment that made the process of getting fitter much more enjoyable.
The Power of Consistency
Fitness classes became an essential part of my routine, and consistency was key to my success. I started going six days a week, and I was amazed by how quickly my body responded. Not only did I lose the 35 pounds I had gained during pregnancy, but I also gained muscle, improved my posture, and built a level of endurance I never thought possible.
The structure of the classes made it easier to stay on track. Having a set schedule each week kept me disciplined, and knowing I had a class to look forward to motivated me to stay active even on days when I wasn’t feeling up to it.
The Bottom Line: Find What Works for You
What I’ve learned from my experience is that fitness is not a one-size-fits-all approach. What works for one person might not work for another, and that’s okay. For me, fitness classes were the perfect solution, but if group workouts don’t appeal to you, that’s fine too. The important part is finding something you enjoy and can stick to in the long run.
If you’re struggling with motivation or just don’t know where to start, I recommend trying out a few different types of fitness classes or activities. You might be surprised by how much you enjoy a class that you initially thought wasn’t for you. The most important thing is to find something that feels right and keeps you coming back for more.
Losing 35 pounds was not about an extreme transformation—it was about making small, consistent changes that built up over time. Fitness classes were a game-changer for me, and I’m so grateful for the community, support, and motivation they provided. If you’re ready to start your fitness journey, remember that the right workout can make all the difference.
Elizabeth Yuen 