How Corporate Comms Crafted a Top Fitness Coach: 6 Lessons I Took from Comms to the Gym Studio

Exciting news! I've secured a spot as a finalist in the Les Mills Nordic Superstar competition, proudly representing my homeland, the Czech Republic! (Don't ask me why it's part of the Nordic organisation) From a pool of hundreds of applications, I'm honoured to have made it to the top 15 (thus far). But this post isn't just about flexing ego; it's also about pointing out the perhaps unexpected parallels between communications and group fitness

How did I find success as a group exercise instructor within just a year? (I started Body Pumping in April 2023) The answer lies in the power of communication – a skill I've refined for over a decade and the cornerstone of both employee engagement and engaging fitness classes.

Upon reflection, it's clear that the similarities between the two are striking. Allow me to share a list of 6 key aspects I believe are essential in both of these disciplines.

1. Motivation and inspiring action

Whether it's empowering participants to reach new fitness heights or inspiring colleagues to drive positive outcomes, I see myself as a catalyst for change in both realms.

• In fitness: My aim is to ignite the inner fire within participants, pushing them beyond their limits to achieve their fitness goals.

• In comms: I strive to engage employees, motivating them to embrace company values and objectives.

2. Clear communication

Clear communication is essential in both leading a workout class and delivering important company updates. I believe in establishing a solid foundation in communication to ensure understanding and alignment among participants or employees.

• In fitness: In Les Mills, we work with layers of communications, starting with the basics that set up participants for safe and effective exercises, moving further down to motivational cues that push participants to their limits.

• In comms: I ensure that every message I convey is crystal clear, starting by laying out the what, why, when, who, and how and answering the "what's in it for me?" question everyone asks.

3. Building team spirit

Building a strong sense of camaraderie and belonging enhances collective success, both in fitness and in the workplace.

• In fitness: As a group fitness instructor, I take pride in creating a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where every participant feels seen, connected, and encouraged. This is how I get people to come back every week for more.

• In comms: Similarly, in my communications role, I work tirelessly to foster a sense of community among employees within the organisation.

4. Being adaptable

Finding the right way of saying what you want to say with respect to your audience is key to making any message land. There is no 'one size fits all' solution, neither at work or in the gym.

• In fitness: In my fitness classes, I'm constantly adjusting workouts and coaching techniques on the fly to meet the different needs and fitness levels of participants.

• In comms: Similarly, in communications, I adapt messaging and format to resonate with different audiences. 

5. Celebrating success

Taking the time to celebrate achievements fosters a culture of appreciation and motivates people to go above and beyond; it makes people want to push themselves.

• In fitness: Celebrating success of members as they achieve personal records or simply show up for the workout is a vital part being a group fitness instructor.

• In comms: Acknowledging employees contributions to the organisation's success is the building block of employee engagement.

6. Seeking feedback for improvement

• In fitness: Whether it's from participants in my classes on the track selection…

• In comms: …or from colleagues on what was being announced...

I value every input as an opportunity to refine my skills and enhance the experience for others. In both roles, I'm committed to constant growth and development.

I firmly believe that recognising others is fundamental in any role or human interaction; it's a way to demonstrate appreciation and care for those around us. After all, we are social animals, said Aristotle.

I see my role as a group fitness instructor as an extension of my passion for motivating and inspiring people to take action. Over the past 12 years of my career, I've dedicated myself to empowering others to thrive. Witnessing people succeed whether it's in the office or in the gym studio – and knowing that I've played a part, no matter how small, in their journey – is incredibly fulfilling. It's a humbling reminder of the impact I have on other's lives.

About me:

With a career spanning across some of the largest global organisations like DHL, Siemens, Adecco, ADP, and IKEA, I've honed my expertise in various facets of communications, with a particular focus on employee communications and engagement. 

As a certified Les Mills instructor in five concepts, including BODYPUMP, BODYATTACK, BODYSTEP, LES MILLS GRIT Series, and Les Mills CORE, I'm dedicated to continuously learning and growing, both personally and professionally, as I strive to make a positive difference in the lives of others.