Class Objectives: Your Way, My Way, or No Way?

We were most likely all taught in our certification course to teach "on top of the phrase" and use a 32 count to choreograph our fitness classes, but are we doing it?  I'd like to canvas the fitness industry to determine how many instructors truly format their classes in this manner.  We are all guilty of using the techno remix aerobic music that can be mundane at times.  As always, there are pro's and con's to everything.  What goes up, must come down, but what is the hype about counting over and over again to be "on top of the phrase?"  1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8.  2,2,3,4,5,6,7,8.  3,2,3,4,5,6,7,8.  4,2,3,4,5,6,7,8.  From the top!  If that isn't enough to drive you crazy, I don't know what can.  As an Exercise Physiologist, Personal Trainer, and new Group Fitness Instructor, I must come to terms with myself to truly determine the number one goal of a fitness class--- to place a greater demand on the body and cardiovascular system in order to benefit from the activity and exercise.  What does this mean?  Simply create a fitness class that motivates and stimulates the average individual. 

I do, however, understand that there are those obsessive compulsive individuals that have been attending your class for ages and change is not in their vocabulary, so they seem to enjoy the phrasing.  It helps the class move more smoothly and it is easier to anticipate upcoming moves.  Kudos to the disciplined instructors that spend the time creating 32 count classes. trust me, as a new instructor, I spend most of my time planning out, writing out, and practicing the 32 count combos, but I feel so claustrophobic teaching in this manner.  I'm a very "by the seat of my pants" kind of gal and I like to try and interpret each individual as we proceed through the class.  Facial expressions are a tell all, if you know what I mean.  Point and case:  I was teaching a kickboxing class and several of my attendees were in their 60's.  I realized after doing a 32 count bob and weave with different jabs and punches, they were worn out.  I, as an open minded instructor, adapted my class so I wouldn't have any drop outs or frustrated individuals.  If you're not willing to change it up and divert from your textbook, many people will not be a returning customer.  I used to be that customer!  Always try to put your feet in their shoes.  You have different mentalities, objectives, personalities, and fitness levels.  Why put all that time and effort into designing a 32 count combo, when most people enjoy radio music?  Or just use your cardio mix music, but don't get too technical with being on top of the phrase.  Many people can't even feel the beat or they don't possess rhythm anyway.  I had a fitness coordinator tell me when I first received my certification that I, nor any other instructor, would teach for her if we "tapped it out" or didn't teach in a 32 count format.  This is absurd to me.  If you are a qualified instructor and you have the same agenda and goals as any other fitness instructor, why should it matter how you teach the class as long as you are teaching it safely?  Why am I being molded to your cake pan?  Let each instructor bring a different creative flare to the table.  That's what it's all about anyway!