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Trying a group fitness class for the first time can feel a little daunting. You may not know how to set up the equipment, what the movements are or what to expect once the class starts.
Our Welcome To sessions are designed to take that uncertainty away. These short introductions take place before selected fitness classes and give you the chance to meet your instructor, get familiar with the equipment and learn the basic techniques you will need during the session.
Your instructor will help you get set up correctly, explain what to expect and answer any questions before the main class begins. By the time everyone else arrives, you are ready to join in with confidence.
A Welcome To session takes around 10 minutes and runs immediately before the class it supports. Simply book the Welcome To session through the Iconic Health Clubs app and arrive at the stated time.
Your instructor will show you how to set up any equipment, explain the basic movements and positions used in the class and help you choose an appropriate starting level. If an exercise can be adapted, they will also explain the alternatives available to you.
Once the introduction is finished, you can move straight into the main class knowing what to expect.
Everybody is welcome in our group fitness classes. You do not need to already be fit, experienced or familiar with the equipment. Welcome To sessions are specifically there to make your first experience easier.
They are particularly useful for classes that use specialist equipment or movements that may be unfamiliar at first. Instead of trying to work everything out while the main class is already starting, you have dedicated time with an instructor beforehand.
The exact introduction depends on the class you are attending, but your instructor may help you with:
The aim is simple: when the class starts, you should feel prepared rather than wondering what you are supposed to be doing.
Welcome To introductions may be available before selected formats such as indoor cycling, HIIT Spin, BodyPump and BodyCombat. The exact sessions available can vary by club and timetable.
If you are new to indoor cycling, your instructor can help you adjust the saddle and handlebars correctly, explain the resistance control and show you the main riding positions before the session starts.
Alongside setting up the bike, you will learn how the high-intensity interval format works and how to control your effort during work and recovery periods.
For weight-based classes such as BodyPump, your instructor can show you how to set up your barbell and bench, choose suitable weights and become familiar with the basic lifting positions used during the class.
For BodyCombat, your instructor can introduce the basic stance, punches and kicks so that the choreography feels more familiar once the full class begins.
Welcome To sessions have traditionally been offered across our Smithfield, Dartry and Camden Street clubs. Availability and class formats can change as timetables are updated.
Check the Iconic Health Clubs app for the current timetable at your club. If there is no dedicated Welcome To session before the class you want to attend, arrive a few minutes early and let your instructor know it is your first time. They will be happy to help you get set up.
There is no need to worry about keeping up with everyone else. Fitness classes are designed for a range of experience levels, and instructors can provide alternatives where needed.
Your first class is simply an opportunity to learn the format. Once you know the equipment, movements and structure, the next session already feels much more familiar.
Not a member yet? Book a club tour to see our studios, meet the team and discover which classes best suit your goals and experience level.
