What Semi-Private Training Actually Is and Why It Belongs in Your Training Routine

Torrie Long • July 23, 2026

Semi-Private Training is the sweet spot between personal training and group fitness.

We are big proponents of personal training and personalized programming for athletes. A few months ago, we shared more about this in detail. We explained how a personal trainer gives you the expert guidance you need to reach your fitness goals safely and efficiently; in the same way you would seek out a doctor or lawyer for their expertise. We also know that many athletes prefer the motivation and camaraderie of a group fitness setting. That is where semi-private training gives you the best of both worlds.

Semi-private training gives you a smaller training setting than group classes, with groups of 2–5 athletes total, and a personalized fitness program while still training alongside other like-minded individuals. Think of it like a large lecture where a speaker can share a wealth of information with a big group, but a breakout group gives you the chance to discuss the finer points in more detail. At the gym, group classes give you the opportunity to work out with a generally designed program and guidance from a coach, whereas semi-private training provides a program designed specifically for your needs, more dedicated time from the trainer, and the accountability of other members in your group.

Small Groups = More Coaching

In any learning environment, the smaller the group, the more feedback you get from the teacher. Unlike in group classes, you are guaranteed to be in a group of five or fewer participants, meaning your trainer can spend more individualized time with you. This allows time to adjust your program in more detail and focus where needed on skill development and workout execution. Your coach is more likely to see the nuances in your movement patterns and identify areas that need more attention than in a larger group setting.

Mutual Effort Towards Similar Goals

With semi-private training, athletes may be at different stages and following different programs, but they are working toward a common goal and fitness modality. It can be motivating to have other athletes by your side who are committed to putting in the work toward a similar goal. You may be at a different skill level in Olympic weightlifting or HYROX endurance training, but you will be training similar movements and encouraging each other along the way.

All About the Finances

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room between group classes and personal training: the cost. When you hire someone to dedicate their time and attention during personal training, you pay a premium cost. Is it worth it? Absolutely. You have a progressive program written just for you, all eyes on every movement, and a personal cheerleader. In group classes, you follow the general program while a coach divides their time among all the members. Semi-private is the sweet spot between the two: you get a personalized program and more attention without bearing the full cost of the expert’s time alone. This can open the door for folks to get more individualized coaching while working within a stricter budget.

How to Begin Semi-Private Training

Getting started in a semi-private training group can sometimes be the most difficult part - but we are here to guide you. One way many people get started is by rounding up a group of friends, family members, or co-workers who are interested in working out together. From there, we can schedule your group with the trainer best suited for your goals at a time that works for everyone involved.

We have also put together new groups to remove as many barriers to entry as possible for folks ready to take the leap! Peek at our upcoming semi-private training groups that begin on August 3rd.

Olympic Weightlifting Foundations with Coach Carlos
Thursdays at 5pm - 3 Participant Maximum
Learn the fundamentals of the snatch and clean & jerk in a supportive, small group setting designed specifically for beginners. This program is limited to 3 participants and requires a minimum 3-month commitment. This semi-private training group meets Thursdays at 5:00 PM and provides personalized coaching to build confidence, improve technique, and develop strength safely from the ground up.
HYROX Performance Training with Coach Katie
Mondays at 6am and Thursdays at 5:30pm - 4 Participant Cap
Train with Coach Katie, a regular HYROX racer, in a semi-private setting designed to help you build the strength, endurance, and confidence needed to excel in HYROX, or simply become a fitter, more well-rounded athlete. Limited to 4 participants, these sessions meet Mondays at 6:00 AM and Thursdays at 5:30 PM, providing individualized coaching whether you're training for your first race, chasing a personal best, or looking for a challenging functional fitness program.
Calisthenics and Bodyweight Training with Coach PeaceSelah
Thursdays at 4pm - 5 Member Cap
Train with Coach PeaceSelah Lopez, American Ninja Warrior competitor, in a semi-private training group designed to build real-world strength through calisthenics and bodyweight movement. Sessions will focus on mastering pull-ups and push-ups, full-body strength, mobility, balance, and body control with personalized coaching in a small-group setting.
Mobility Training with Coach Ray
Mondays at 8am - 5 Member Cap
Move better, feel better, and build strength through your full range of motion in our Mobility-Focused Semi-Private Training Group with Coach Ray. With personalized coaching in a supportive small-group setting, you'll improve mobility, stability, flexibility, and overall movement quality. This program is designed for both those looking to increase flexibility and those who are already flexible but want greater control, strength, and stability throughout their range of motion. Whether your goal is better performance, injury prevention, or simply moving with more confidence, this group will help you get there.
Youth Athlete Small Group with Coach Carlos