Should I Introduce Group Exercise Classes to My Clinic?
Pilates, aqua therapy, and pre- and postnatal classes are becoming increasingly popular and are often considered valuable additions to physiotherapy services. But are they the right fit for your clinic? Deciding whether to incorporate group classes depends on several factors, including your clinic’s goals, resources, and patient needs. Below, we provide some key considerations to guide your decision-making.
Staying Connected with Patients
We know that patients completing pelvic floor rehabilitation could benefit from regular ‘supervised’ pelvic floor training sessions but it mat be an option due to time, budget, or other constraints. We have considered how we can enhance client outcomes by increasing supervision and adherence to programs and often use group classes as a way to maintain contact.
Joining a clinical exercise class, although not entirely focused on pelvic floor and individual progams, allows clients to complete some exercise in a structured, supervised environment. Regular interaction with their care provider in a group setting has the potential for their 1:1 work to stay front of mind and potentially assists their adherence to treatment plans whilst providing a greater sense of continuity.
Building Community and Connection
Group classes aren’t just about exercise—they’re an opportunity for patients to build connections. This is especially valuable for new mums or individuals managing chronic conditions who may feel isolated.
For instance, a “Mums and Bubs” class offers new mothers a safe space to regain strength while connecting with others in similar situations. This supportive environment can foster loyalty, making your clinic not only a place for physical health but also a source of community and wellbeing.
Attracting Your Ideal Clients
Group classes can naturally draw health-conscious individuals who are proactive about their wellbeing—think pregnant women looking for safe exercise options or postnatal clients wanting expert guidance. These patients often align with your clinic’s expertise and are more likely to explore additional services, such as pelvic floor assessments or one-on-one physiotherapy sessions.
Enhancing Variety for Your Physios
From your team’s perspective, running group classes can add variety to their workday and provide opportunities to develop skills in group management and exercise prescription. For physiotherapists accustomed to one-on-one consults, leading a class can be a refreshing change of pace that fosters creativity and engagement.
A motivated, satisfied team contributes to better patient care and retention, making group classes a win for everyone.
Maximising Your Clinic’s Resources
Group classes can also make business sense. They may enable you to utilise clinic space more efficiently, particularly during quieter hours, and allow you to see multiple patients simultaneously, diversifying your revenue streams.
Additionally, group classes can act as a gateway for patients to explore other services, creating more touch points that build loyalty and trust.
Key Considerations for Your Decision
Before introducing group classes, ask yourself these questions:
What are your goals? Are you looking to grow your clinic, attract specific patient demographics, or enhance continuity of care?
Do you have the resources? Is there adequate space, staffing, and equipment to support group sessions?
Will it benefit your patients? Can group classes offer your patients an effective, supportive way to stay engaged with their care?
If the answer to these questions aligns with your clinic’s vision, group classes could be a valuable addition. However, if space, staffing, or resources are already stretched, it may be worth waiting until you’re in a better position to launch.
Final Thoughts
Adding group exercise classes to your clinic has the potential to benefit patients, your team, and your business. They provide a cost-effective way for patients to stay connected, foster community, and allow your clinic to attract motivated, health-focused clients.
If you’re considering this step, start small—pilot a class or two and gauge the response. By carefully weighing your goals and resources, you can make an informed decision about whether group classes are the right fit for your clinic.