As 2024 draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the foundation of what makes Round 1 Fitness special: our community and the transformative power of group training. Whether you’ve been smashing the bags in BoxPlus, building strength in Functional Fitness or Peak Performance or maybe honing your athletic potential in the Developing Athlete program, there’s one common thread—the group environment.

You have to remember, Round 1 was created as I tried to find a way to re-create all of the fun team-sports training sessions of my youth – football, cricket, athletics, swim squad – within the gym.  We would all come together at a set time, the coach would go through the session with us – then we would try and execute it as well as we could (with the coach supervising, encouraging and correcting every step of the way).  High 5’s all round – back the next day to do it all over again!  Group training is 100% near and dear to me – here’s why it works and why it’s been at the heart of Round 1 Fitness from day one.

1. Built-In Motivation and Accountability

Let’s be honest—showing up isn’t always easy. But when you know a coach is waiting to greet you by name and a room full of people are ready to cheer you on, it’s a game-changer. Group training eliminates the isolation that often comes with solo workouts. You’re not just accountable to yourself—you’re part of something bigger.

2. A Positive Push (That’s Not Overwhelming)

The energy in a group class is contagious. When someone crushes a new personal best or grits through their last set, it inspires everyone to dig a little deeper. And at Round 1 Fitness, we’re all about pushing you to your best—not someone else’s. Whether it’s a killer set of goblet squats in BoxPlus or a perfectly executed deadlift in Functional Fitness, we meet you where you are while encouraging you to level up.

3. Expert Guidance Without Guesswork

In a group class, you’re never left to figure it out on your own. Our coaches are there to teach, correct, and motivate. They ensure that every punch, press, or pull is performed safely and effectively. Group training combines the benefits of personal coaching with the camaraderie of training alongside others.

4. A Variety That Keeps You Coming Back

Let’s face it—workouts can get stale if you’re doing the same thing over and over. Not here. One day you’re smashing a ski-erg in BoxPlus; the next, you’re conquering a barbell complex in Peak Performance. Group training offers variety that keeps you engaged, excited, and ready for more.  We try hard to maintain a ‘progression’ whilst offering constantly varied activities…not every session will be your favourite but every session has something to offer!

5. The Community Effect

There’s a unique magic in sweating, struggling, and succeeding together. The person next to you isn’t just another gym-goer—they’re part of your team. Over time, these connections become your support system, both inside and outside the gym. It’s not just about fitness; it’s about friendship.

6. Proven Results

Studies have shown that people in group fitness settings tend to stick to their programs longer, train harder, and achieve better results than those who train alone. It’s no coincidence that some of the best transformations at Round 1 Fitness have come from members who fully embrace the group training experience.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we move into a new year, we invite you to lean into what we do best. Whether you’re rediscovering your love for boxing, building strength one rep at a time, or guiding the next generation of athletes, group training at Round 1 Fitness offers the perfect environment to hit your goals—and have fun doing it.

If you’ve been on the sidelines, now’s the time to jump in. We can’t wait to see what you’ll achieve in 2025 with the power of the group behind you.

See you in the gym,

Michael.