Digital and Live Intensity
This study compares exertion and enjoyment levels between a live BODYCOMBAT™ class in the gym and two digital formats (livestream and on demand) of the same workout. Participants’ average heart rate was 14 percent higher during the gym class compared to the livestream and on demand sessions. The gym-based workout was also rated as being 13 percent more enjoyable and 14 percent more satisfying.
INTRODUCTION
In the last five years, streaming (live classes on screen with other participants visible) and on-demand (pre-recorded classes on screen without other participants visible) formats have grown in popularity. Our goal was to compare the physiological intensity and psychological perceptions of live group, live streaming, and non-live on-demand classes.
HYPOTHESIS
We hypothesized that live classes would have the greatest cardiovascular intensity, enjoyment, and satisfaction followed by streaming and finally on-demand.
METHOD
Fifty-four adults aged between 18 and 63 years, who regularly participate in group fitness classes, recorded their heart rate with a chest transmitter during the same BODYCOMBAT™ class in each of the three formats in random order. They also completed after-class surveys to determine their levels of enjoyment and satisfaction.
RESULTS
Participants’ average heart rate was 14 percent higher during the gym class compared to the livestream and on-demand sessions, with the exact same BODYCOMBAT release. As well as motivating participants to work harder, the gym-based workout was rated as being 13 percent more enjoyable and 14 percent more satisfying than the two digital workouts. However, there was no difference in any heart rate variables between the streaming and on-demand formats.
CONCLUSION
Streaming and on-demand group fitness formats are viable options for meeting exercise prescription guidelines. But physiological intensity and psychological perceptions were greater during the live class format.
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More about the author
Bryce Hastings
Bryce Hastings drives the science behind the sweat, leading world class research that shapes how millions of people train. Working alongside internationally renowned research partners, Bryce bridges the gap between the lab and the gym floor, ensuring every LES MILLS™ program is safe, effective, and powered by science.
He has developed numerous research programs and co authored reports across a range of fitness and scientific publications. These include the landmark Get Fit Together trial, alongside research into core conditioning, high intensity interval training, and exercise strategies for sedentary individuals.
A certified Physical Therapist since 1986, Bryce’s academic work is supported by extensive hands on experience. He owned a private practice within the original Les Mills World of Fitness in Auckland and holds an Advanced Diploma in Manipulative Therapy and a Master of Philosophy from Auckland University of Technology, where he serves as a Research Associate and lectured part time for eight years.
