Group fitness continues to be a cornerstone of the fitness industry, but its success hinges on innovation, adaptability and a keen understanding of member preferences. Club Solutions talked to four different facilities across the U.S. to see which Group X classes popular, what factors are contributing to successful programs and more.
EoS Fitness
EoS Fitness operates 107 gyms across six states, with class popularity varying by location. However, several formats consistently perform well companywide:
- Strength Classes: BODYPUMP by Les Mills and EoS group fitness branded classes like STRONG and The Lift Series are popular due to their focus on lifting heavier weights with fewer repetitions — catering to a younger demographic that prioritizes muscle building. Classes targeting specific body parts — upper, lower, core, etc. — also resonate well, aligning with members’ structured workout plans.
- Dance Classes: Zumba and other dance-based formats thrive by prioritizing simple, accessible moves over complex choreography. This inclusivity fosters a fun, party-like atmosphere and boosts participation.
- Water Classes: Aqua classes are unexpectedly popular, drawing diverse participants with challenging and engaging sessions led by skilled instructors.
- Innovative Studios:
- Booty Builder Lab: Focuses on results-driven workouts using Booty Builder equipment in a dedicated studio, aiming to build strong, healthy physiques.
- Fitness Unchained (FU): Offers structured circuit-style classes — FU Endurance, FU Strength, and FU Performance — within a vibrant, sports-performance-oriented arena.
- Mind Body Rehab: Held in an 85-degree studio, these sessions combine yoga, Pilates, barre, stretching, and foam rolling in a sanctuary-like setting reminiscent of a beach.
“We’ve found huge success creating our own new offerings that nobody else is doing in a gym,” said Joella Hopkins, the EVP of Group Fitness for EoS Fitness. “We have brought the boutique experience to the gym. Staying the same with group fitness programming during this time we’re in can be a very detrimental. Now that EoS group fitness has started many new trends, others have tried to imitate some of our ideas. We take that as a compliment. We know being the first to do these things has put us on the map as the gyms to watch when it comes to group fitness.”
Burbank Fitness Club
The top-performing group fitness classes at Burbank Fitness Club are Reformer Pilates, barre and indoor cycling. These classes are popular for their low impact yet highly effective workouts, accommodating various fitness levels. Amanda Benson, the managing director at Burbank, explained members value the personalized attention from instructors, the emphasis on building strength and flexibility, and the energetic community atmosphere. Also, these classes are included in the membership price, enhancing accessibility and adding substantial value to the fitness experience.
“Currently, 35.37% of our membership is involved in Group X classes, based on the data we’ve collected since February when we introduced our new app to track class attendance,” said Benson. “While this is a strong indicator of engagement, it’s worth noting that not all members are consistently using the app, so the actual percentage might be slightly higher. Since we only began tracking attendance in February, we don’t have comparable data from previous years, but the app provides us with a clearer picture moving forward.”
Burbank started utilizing the app to manage reservations for Pilates Reformer, barre and indoor cycling classes, as these have limited spots available. This transition has been extremely helpful for the front desk team, replacing the previous sign-up sheet system. Additionally, the $25 no-show fee for Pilates Reformer has been effective in reducing last-minute cancellations, and the five-person waitlist ensures spots are quickly filled when cancellations do occur.
PRO Club
At PRO Club, Joshua Fitchitt, the SVP of fitness, said group exercise classes have become a central part of the club experience, and they’re seeing some interesting trends in member participation. From high-energy dance classes to strength-focused sessions, the demand for Group X options is stronger than ever, while some traditional favorites have faced a decline.
Thriving Classes:
- Dance Classes: Zumba and Bollywood draw over 50 participants per session, driven by dynamic instructors, energetic playlists and a fun, motivating environment. Members enjoy unwinding, dancing, burning calories and connecting with a strong sense of community.
- Strength and Conditioning: Averaging 24 participants per class, these sessions are led by personal trainers who provide personalized feedback, ensure safety and help maximize performance. Performance tracking systems highlight progress, encouraging continuous participation and achievement.
- Mind and Body Classes: Vinyasa Yoga, Pilates Mat, Barre, Slow Flow Yoga, and private yoga sessions are highly popular, with classes running near capacity.
- TRX Total Body Circuit Training: Combining suspension training, kettlebells, dumbbells and medicine balls, this class averages 30 participants. The variety of equipment and unique weight training movements keep sessions fresh, engaging, and appealing to a diverse crowd.
“On the other hand, cycling classes have seen a noticeable drop in participation,” said Fitchitt. “These classes used to attract 60 participants but now average only 25 per session. The decline could be attributed to several factors, including the rise of at-home fitness options like Peloton, which have made cycling more accessible and convenient. Additionally, some members may have grown tired of the cycling format and are now exploring other workout types. Regardless of the reasons, this shift presents an opportunity for our facility to explore ways to innovate and refresh cycling offerings to reignite interest.”
For Fitchitt, one of the most exciting developments is the increasing participation in Group X classes. Currently, nearly 50% of their membership engages in group exercise, which is the highest rate they’ve ever seen at the facility. “This level of engagement reflects the importance of these classes in building a loyal, dedicated member base,” he said. “By offering a variety of options, including dance, strength training, circuit classes and mind-body wellness, we’ve been able to meet the diverse needs and preferences of our members.”
Gainesville Health and Fitness
At Gainesville Health and Fitness, the most popular Group X classes are Cardio Party Mash Up, yoga, Les Mills BODYPUMP and BODYCOMBAT, HIIT, Zumba and mat Pilates.
According to Debbie Lee, the chief marketing officer for Gainesville, there is one main factor that contributes to the success of these classes.
“No. 1 is the instructor,” said Lee. “Hands down the most important factor, as we all know.
In this category, it’s the deep connection made by the instructor with class members. It’s knowing milestones, trips recently taken, birthdays, how their kid did in the game last week — something personal for meaningful conversation. Gone are the days of running into class, teaching and running out. That’s not how to build the relationships so critical to business and our well-being.”
“At the end of the day, it’s about being friends — they come back for that,” explained Lee. “Because instructors see some of the same members several times a week, that helps build the connection.”
Overall, these clubs agreed: group fitness is more than a workout — it’s a powerful driver of community, loyalty and innovation. From high-energy dance sessions to strength-focused circuits and boutique-style offerings, facilities like EoS Fitness, Burbank Fitness Club, PRO Club and Gainesville Health and Fitness are setting the standard for what keeps members coming back. The secret? Knowing your audience, staying ahead of trends and building genuine connections. In a rapidly evolving industry, those who innovate and deliver experiences that resonate won’t just survive — they’ll thrive.
“Many industry ‘experts’ are saying that group fitness might be a thing of the past,” added Hopkins. “Well, I dare to challenge that. It’s only a thing of the past if you are not willing to change.”
