Why You Shouldn’t Do Your Own Workout in Class

At FIIT CULTURE, we take programming seriously. Every workout we create has a purpose—whether it’s to build strength, improve endurance, or help you move better. But every now and then, there’s someone who decides to do their own thing in the middle of a class. Maybe it’s skipping a movement, swapping an exercise, or completely making up their own workout. Let’s talk about why that’s not just ineffective, but also disruptive to the group experience.

1. The Programming Has a Purpose

Every class is programmed with progression, balance, and results in mind. Coaches design workouts that complement previous and future sessions, ensuring you get a well-rounded mix of strength, endurance, and recovery. When you go off-script, you’re missing out on that structure, potentially overtraining certain muscle groups while neglecting others.

2. It’s Disruptive to the Group

A big part of group training is the energy and flow of the class. When someone decides to do something completely different, it throws off the rhythm. Imagine a group doing synchronized intervals on the rower, but one person is doing push-ups in the corner. It creates confusion and breaks the sense of camaraderie that makes these workouts so powerful.

3. You’re Not Getting What You Came For

If you’ve signed up for a structured class, trust the process. Showing up and ignoring the program is like going to a chef’s tasting menu and asking for a PB&J instead. The class is designed to challenge and improve you, often in ways you don’t expect—which is where the real growth happens.

4. Safety First

Our programming isn’t just about effectiveness—it’s about safety. The warm-up, movement prep, and progressions are designed to reduce injury risk. When you go rogue and skip a movement or sub in something random, you could be putting yourself at risk of strain or injury.

5. It Disrespects the Coach and the Class

Your coach is there to guide you, correct your form, and help you progress. When you ignore the workout and do your own thing, it sends the message that you don’t trust their expertise. Plus, it can distract the coach from helping others who are there to learn and improve.

What If You Have Concerns About a Workout?

If you’re injured, have limitations, or simply don’t feel comfortable with a movement, that’s totally valid. But instead of going rogue, talk to your coach! We’re happy to offer modifications that align with the programming while still keeping you safe and engaged.

Final Thoughts

A strong fitness community thrives when everyone follows the program, trusts the process, and works together. Next time you’re tempted to freestyle your own workout in class, remember: there’s a reason behind every rep, every interval, and every movement. Follow the plan, push yourself, and trust that the programming is designed to make you better.

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