Providing a variety of intensity options, regressions and progressions for exercise increases both the safety and the effectiveness of each selected exercise. Progressions and regressions allow each class to meet the needs of a wide variety of individuals, all of whom have differing skill and fitness levels. Intensity variations are included to increase the overall functional capacities for maintaining an independent lifestyle.
Get to know your members and have a plan for each class you teach. When developing a class plan, be sure to utilize fitness variables to progress and modify each exercise for your participants.
Range of Motion
Increasing movement from a small range to a larger range of motion will help intensify the work.
Balance Variations
Include balance variation challenges within the work to offer participants progression opportunities.
Lever Length
Consider changing lever lengths (short to long) to increase or decrease intensity within your class.
Resistance Level
Encourage participants to increase or decrease their resistance work within the tool segment by using heavier or lighter weights, or different colors of tubing to meet their needs.
Impact
Provide progressive impact options within the aerobic segments of class to help meet the needs of every participant. For example, starting with heels side R/L, adding short level lateral arms, then progress to a half jack.
Movement Complexity
Resistance work should be upper-body-focused to avoid fatigue of the lower body. However, consider exercises that involve complex movements or compound movements to help challenge your participants.