National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Group Fitness Instructor Practice Exam

Which is a best practice for adding variety in a fitness class?

1. Add multiple new exercises

2. Change the entire routine each class

3. Add a single new exercise or movement

4. Implement a new theme each week

The correct answer is: Add a single new exercise or movement

Adding a single new exercise or movement to a fitness class is an effective way to introduce variety without overwhelming participants. This approach allows for gradual adaptation and helps maintain the effectiveness of the workout while keeping participants engaged. By integrating just one new element, instructors can assess how well it complements the existing structure of the class and how participants respond. This method encourages familiarity with the core exercises while still freshening up the workout experience. In contrast, adding multiple new exercises at once can create confusion and disrupt the flow of the class, especially for participants who may already be managing challenges with the established routine. Changing the entire routine every class can lead to a lack of continuity and may hinder participants from making consistent progress in their fitness journey, as they won’t have the opportunity to master any one skill or exercise. Implementing a new theme each week can add an element of fun and engagement, but it may not necessarily focus on the individuality of movements that participants need to learn and adapt to effectively, which is why introducing one new exercise is often the most beneficial option.