In a world where fitness programs change like the wind, one enduring strategy stands out: training in small groups. Specifically, working out with two friends can transform your fitness journey in ways you might not expect. Prior to opening the first HOTWORX concept studio in Oxford, MS, I owned a group training facility where we used live trainers to coach small groups in various functional training routines. It was at that facility, where I trained customers myself as a small group coach, when I discovered that the best number for training clients was three, not ten, not one, not two, but three people make the magic happen for a workout! This happens for all of the reasons I outline in this blog article. In launching the franchise, the HOTWORX patented infrared workout sauna was deployed to take advantage of the power of three people working out together. The dynamic of a small group can create a powerful environment for collaboration and inspiration!
The sauna was originally designed for small group training with room for three clients per sauna. Here’s why gathering a trio for your workouts could be the game changer you need.
1. Accountability and Motivation
When you commit to working out with a small group of just three people, you instantly create a support system. It’s easy to hit snooze on your alarm when you’re going solo, but knowing that your friends are counting on you makes a huge difference. With just three, it is easier to build strong connections where everyone feels more engaged and accountable.The fear of letting them down can push you out of bed and into the gym.
Moreover, having workout buddies provides a built-in cheerleading squad. Celebrating each other’s achievements, whether big or small, fosters a sense of community and motivation that can drive everyone to perform better. When you see your friends smashing their goals, it ignites your own determination. Just being in the presence of others, whether you know them or not when you’re working out in the sauna, amps up your level of performance.
One study revealed that social support from a fitness group can greatly improve the results of a weight loss program. In this study, among those recruited with friends and given social support strategies, 95% completed the program and 66% maintained their weight loss in full. (1) Fewer people mean less chance for misunderstandings, making it easier to communicate and stay aligned on goals. And, shared goals are easier to establish and commit to in a small group of three.
2. Fun
Let’s face it: training with others is more fun. Training in a trio brings conversation and motivational interaction that doesn’t happen when you go it alone. It opens the door to a wider variety of exercises and challenges. You can cross-train together and try different activities together, whether it's Hot Yoga, Hot Bands, or Hot Thunder.
This cross-training variety not only keeps your workouts exciting but also helps you avoid plateaus. You’re more likely to stick with a fitness routine that feels fresh and fun, and working out together allows you to explore new workout types that you might not try on your own.
3. Enhanced Learning and Technique
When you train in a small group, you can share knowledge and techniques with each other. One person may be more experienced in strength training, while another excels in flexibility with yoga. This diversity means you can learn from one another, pick up tips, and refine your form—all of which are crucial for preventing injuries and maximizing your results.
Having peers who can provide immediate feedback allows you to correct your posture and improve your technique in real-time. It’s like having a mini-coaching session, which can be especially beneficial if you're new to fitness or trying to master a new workout type.
4. Cost-Effective Training
Hiring a personal trainer can be pricey, but training in a small group of three with a virtual trainer on the screen in an infrared sauna is included with the price of the monthly studio membership at HOTWORX.
5. Building Stronger Bonds
Training with friends can deepen your relationships. You’ll share sweat, laughter, and maybe even a few struggles along the way when you train as a trio in the sauna. These shared experiences can create bonds that go beyond the gym. Whether it’s pushing each other to finish that last set or sharing experiences with nutrition apps like Diet Trax, to convos about healthy meal prep ideas, you’ll cultivate a sense of camaraderie that enriches your lives outside of workouts.
6. Healthy Competition
A little friendly competition can be a great motivator. Training in a group of three often leads to fun rivalries—whether it’s who can do the best plank or crush the cycle and burn the most calories. This kind of competition can push everyone to work harder and achieve goals that might feel out of reach when working out by yourself.
Conclusion
Fitness training in a group of three offers a plethora of benefits—from accountability and motivation to enhanced learning and deeper friendships. Whether you’re looking to elevate your fitness routine or simply want to enjoy the journey more, gather your two best workout buddies and hit the studio together. With the power of three on your side, you’ll find that achieving your fitness goals can be a fun and fulfilling adventure! You might just find that the strength of three is more powerful than you ever imagined!
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(1) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10028217/
