I am a big believer in the power of group fitness. Whether it's the energy of hundreds of yogis sweating together at an outdoor festival or a group of 40 spinners rocking out to Kanye remixes, group fitness inspires healthy camaraderie and shines a bright light on the world of wellness.

Unlike solitary exercise on a machine or weight lifting, taking classes often makes going to a health club a social event. You can do a couple of things to help decide whether a specific exercise class will be right for you.

I like to train alone. I don't care for classes or working out with others. I prefer to do my own thing and rely on the kindness of others if I need help with a spot.

These types of classes I'm talking about are known as "pre-choreographed." It's the same concept as McDonald's. Wherever you go to and take this particular class, you'll be getting the same exact routine anywhere in the world.

Exercising together appears to increase the level of the feel-good endorphin hormones naturally released during physical exertion, a study suggests....