By: Jen Stanton, Group Fitness Director
As the Group Fitness Director here at the DAC, I often hear how much members love their favorite classes and instructors, this is what I live for! The connection between instructor and member is one of the most powerful elements of Group Exercise. But every now and then, your favorite instructor needs a day off, is attending continuing education, or has a schedule conflict. When that happens, we bring in one of our talented substitute instructors to lead class.
Here’s the thing: showing up still matters, even when there’s a sub. In fact, your presence means more than you might realize.
- You Might Discover a New Favorite Instructor
Subs are not just “fill-ins”, they’re skilled professionals who bring their own energy, style, and playlist to class. You might find a new favorite format, learn a new technique, or simply connect with someone who motivates you differently. The variety can actually enhance your fitness journey and keep things fresh.
- Keep Your Fitness Routine Strong
Skipping class just because there’s a sub can throw off your consistency. Fitness progress depends on routine and showing up, even when things look a little different, helps maintain your rhythm and momentum. Think of it as a healthy commitment to you, not just the instructor.
- Your Presence Builds Our Fitness Community
One of the best parts of Group X is the sense of community, the shared energy, laughter, encouragement, and camaraderie. When a few people decide not to come because their regular instructor isn’t there, the class energy changes. Supporting each other, no matter who’s leading, keeps our community strong and ensures that everyone (including the sub!) feels the spirit that makes our club so special.
- Respect the Time and Effort of Substitute Instructors
Subs don’t just “show up.” They prepare lesson plans, practice choreography, study class formats, and sometimes learn entirely new routines just to make sure you get the high-quality experience you expect. When you show up, you’re showing appreciation for their time, dedication, and professionalism.
- Stay Healthy — and Keep Showing Up!
We’re also heading into cold and flu season, and one of the best ways to keep your fitness routine strong is by staying healthy. A few reminders for the season:
Fitness Tips
- Prioritize recovery: Adequate sleep, mobility work, and active recovery days help your immune system stay resilient.
- Wash your hands and equipment before and after class.
- Stay home if you’re sick, rest is part of wellness too!
Nutrition Tips
- Eat a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables daily, your immune system loves antioxidants.
- Hydrate consistently; indoor heating and cooler air can dehydrate faster than you think.
- Incorporate zinc, vitamin C, and probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kimchi, and kefir to support immunity.
Lifestyle Tips
- Manage stress. Meditation, breathing exercises, or a simple walk outside can lower cortisol and boost immune health.
- Get sunlight or supplement vitamin D during our darker Northwest months.
- Keep moving! Consistency is key, even if it’s a light workout or stretch session.
Showing up, even when your favorite instructor is subbed out, says a lot about your dedication, community spirit, and growth mindset. You might surprise yourself with a new instructor you enjoy, a different style you didn’t expect to love, or simply the pride of keeping your fitness promises to yourself.
So next time there’s a sub, come anyway.
You’ll be supporting our instructors, your community, and your own wellness…all in one hour.
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The DAC’s blog content is not medical advice; it’s inspiration to live well.
Our community health club goes beyond a gym – in providing fitness, weight loss, strength training, aquatics and swim lessons, childcare programs, and group fitness including yoga, barre, Pilates, dance and cycling. Check the DAC blog often for more healthy lifestyle tips and resources to support your active lifestyle! Click here for a free guest pass to experience the DAC for yourself!
