For years we’ve been tweaking the programming at Axistence (Ryan’s gym in Denver) and although we are a strength and conditioning facility, we’ve always been biased towards strength. (Nobody ever broke a hip because they had bad cardio.) In the training world, typically, group classes are focused on conditioning, and getting strong is a solo endeavor. But because our core values are based around community, group classes are at the center of what we do. So, the questions I’ve had for years are: “How do we implement a tailored, consistent strength program in a group environment and is it even possible? Would it be boring? Would I get buy-in from members?”

I decided to write this article because I found it was not only possible but extremely successful. My hope in writing this is that others may want to share their successes as well. The more we can share what works—especially in a group environment—the more we can help create strong and capable humans.