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Steve Barrett Small group training is popular for its energy, but must evolve to retain popularity, says the director of training at Matrix Fitness
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hree key factors have impacted how small group training has evolved,” says Steve Barrett, director of global education and training at Matrix Fitness. “Firstly, innovation in functional training equipment has increased programming options – historically, intensity was the primary goal, but today, protocols can be far more sophisticated. “Secondly, the role of the trainer in motivating, educating and inspiring has become a driver in boosting engagement and retention,” he says. “Finally, the personalisation of programming to target specific outcomes has become vital – a random set of exercises will no longer suffice and effective programming has to accommodate differing goals and demographics; from sport- or skill-specific sessions, through to training for health and longevity”. CARDIO SPRINT INTENSITY “Cardio training has been going through an identity crisis recently, mainly because the full spectrum of benefits it delivers is misunderstood or overlooked” Barrett adds. “Strength training is experiencing a welcomed boom and for many,
weight training has become their primary activity, but training on cardio equipment can also develop lean muscle tissue when used in specific ways. “Matrix Fitness realised this over 20 years ago resulting in the development of the Sprint 8, and more recently Sprint 8 GX (SGT) programming. Both utilise cardio equipment to train all types of muscle fibres through sprint intensity. SGT has historically been installed in functional spaces and paradoxically – despite the level of investment in cardio – it’s also the area where the least coaching and interactions occurs. I’d like to see that change,” he says SPRINT 8 AND SPRINT 8 GX Matrix Fitness has worked with Phil Campbell, the creator and lead researcher of Sprint 8 programming, for over 20 years. “At a time when
Strength training is experiencing a welcomed boom, but training on cardio equipment can also develop lean muscle PHOTO: MATRIX
Steve Barrett, Director of global education and training, Matrix Fitness
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