Is Your Personality Getting in the Way of Group Fitness Success?
Group fitness is powerful—it’s motivating, social, and full of energy. But sometimes, it’s not our strength or stamina that holds us back… it’s our mindset.
Over the years, I’ve noticed certain personality traits can unintentionally get in the way of people thriving in group fitness. These aren’t “bad traits” either—many of them are strengths in other areas of life. But in a team-oriented workout setting, they can show up as roadblocks.
Here are three that come up the most—and what to do about them:
Perfectionism
If you’re someone who wants to do every move perfectly, you might find group fitness frustrating. The music’s loud, the pace is fast, and things won’t always go smoothly.
Perfectionism can lead to negative self-talk, burnout, or even avoiding classes you feel unprepared for. But group fitness isn’t about perfect—it’s about progress.
Shift your focus: Show up for the experience, not the performance.
👉 Psychology Today: What is Perfectionism?
Resistance to Feedback
Ever feel embarrassed when a coach gives you a correction? You’re not alone. Many people take feedback as criticism, especially in a group setting where they feel “on display.”
But in reality, feedback is a sign that someone sees potential in you. It’s about helping you move better, safer, and stronger.
Reframe it: Feedback isn’t judgment—it’s care.
Over-Competitiveness
A little competition can be motivating—but when you’re constantly comparing yourself to others in class, it can steal your joy.
Group workouts are at their best when everyone supports each other. Comparison can drain your energy, while community builds it.
Reset your goal: Compete with your past self, not the person next to you.
If you’ve seen yourself in any of these traits, that’s okay. Awareness is a powerful first step. Group fitness is not about being the strongest in the room—it’s about showing up, staying open, and growing with others.
Before your next class, try asking yourself:
“What’s one way I can enjoy this workout?”
“What would it look like to support someone else in class today?”
“Can I allow myself to be a learner—not a perfectionist?”
You already belong in the room. Let your mindset catch up with your effort.
You don’t have to change your personality—just be aware of how it shows up. When your mindset works with you, not against you, that’s where the real transformation happens.