IMOC Class Formats — Overview
IMOC Fitness operates three group class types and one personalized small-group format. Each has a distinct purpose, coaching approach, and programming philosophy.
| Class | Primary Goal | Coaching Style | Programming Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| BURN | Cardio conditioning, calorie output, breath management | 80% motivation / 20% coaching | Low-skill, high-output, time-based |
| BUILD | Strength and hypertrophy | 80% coaching / 20% motivation | Load-based, progressive, structured supersets |
| FORTIFY | Functional conditioning, real-world movement gaps | 50% coaching / 50% motivation | Carries, drives, groundwork — effort + form |
| Semi-Private | Personalized programming in a small group | Individual-focused, WES-scaled | WES tiers (White/Blue/Black), 6-week cycles |
BURN — Programming Framework
Identity: BURN is not your average HIIT class. It is a cardio-conditioning experience focused on breath control, effort pacing, and sustainable intensity. Gritty, sweaty, endorphin-driven — but highly coachable and intentional.
Client feeling at the end: Gassed but not wrecked, high on endorphins, proud of their output.
Movement Categories
Every BURN class rotates through 4–6 of these categories. Prioritize simple patterns with repeatable effort.
- Output Machines — Assault Bike, Rower, Sleds, Treadmill, S-Drive, Endless Rope
- Ground-Based — Burpees, Sprawls, Jumping Jacks, Mountain Climbers
- Isometric Holds — Wall Sit, Plank Hold, Static Squat, Pec Stick Hold
- Drive / Move — Sled Push, Sled Drag (light and continuous)
- Breath Recovery — Walking recovery, box step
- Coordination / Flow — Jump Rope, Rhythmic Battle Ropes
- Explosive Output — Slam Ball Throws, Medball Chest Pass, Fast Feet Sled March
Breathing Gears — Effort Framework
| Gear | Breathing | Use When |
|---|---|---|
| Gear 1 | Nose in / Nose out | Warm-up, active recovery |
| Gear 2 | Nose in / Lips out | Sustainable flow effort |
| Gear 3 | Nose in / Mouth out | Challenging threshold work |
| Gear 4 | Mouth in / Mouth out | Max sprint — short bursts only |
6-Week Stimulus Progression
| Week | Focus | Stimulus | Goal |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Flow Intro | 2 min stations @ 70% effort | Establish rhythm + breath control |
| 2 | Sprint Intervals | 30s on / 30s off | Push Gear 4 + fast recovery |
| 3 | Hybrid Grind | 45s on / 15s off | Build intensity capacity |
| 4 | Partner Flow | 60s on / 60s rest | Pacing + shared energy |
| 5 | Flow State Block | 12 min continuous circuit | Long duration + mental endurance |
| 6 | Sprint Repeat | Tabata 20:10 (finishers) | Push speed, anaerobic threshold |
Approved Methods
- Flow Circuit — 2 min per station, continuous effort
- Interval Circuit — 30s on / 30s off or 45s on / 15s off
- Sprint/Rest — 15s all-out / 45s rest at output stations
- Partner Formats — 60s on, 60s rest
- Density Block — Max rounds in 8–12 min
- Tabata — 20s on / 10s off, short bursts
- Hybrid Station Pairings — Output + Isometric (e.g., Treadmill + Wall Sit)
Class Flow (45 min)
- Warm-Up (5–6 min): Flow warm-up + breathing cues (Gear 1 to Gear 2)
- 6 Stations x 3 Rounds: 1–2 people per station, 6-minute station blocks with transition
- Finisher (optional 3–5 min): Tabata, Sprint and Recover, Group Output Challenge
Programming Rules (Non-Negotiables)
- Use only low-skill, high-output exercises
- Track effort with breath cues — not load
- Do not mix too many methods in one class
- Program for energy flow, not just intensity
- Stick to the weekly stimulus across all stations
Sample Week 3 Class
Focus: Output threshold | Stimulus: 45s on / 15s off | Format: Solo rotation, 6 stations, 3 rounds
- Sled Push
- Assault Bike
- Battle Rope Flow
- Bear Crawl + Back
- DB Overhead Carry
- Medball Chest Throw
BUILD — Programming Framework
Identity: BUILD is a technical strength and hypertrophy class. The coach is the expert here — movement quality, load selection, and progressive overload drive the experience.
Movement Patterns (8 Categories)
| Pattern | Example Movements |
|---|---|
| Squat | Goblet Squat, Front Squat, Split Squat |
| Hinge | RDL, Deadlift, Hip Thrust |
| Horizontal Push | DB Chest Press, Push-Up |
| Horizontal Pull | Seated Row, Chest-Supported Row |
| Vertical Push | DB Press, Landmine Press |
| Vertical Pull | Pull-Up, Lat Pulldown |
| Core | Hanging Knee Raise, Cable Chop |
| Isolation / Accessory | Lateral Raise, Hamstring Curl, Bicep Curls |
Approved Methods
- Straight Sets — 3–4 sets, same rep range. Great for focused strength or hypertrophy.
- Supersets — Push + Pull, Upper + Lower, Primary + Accessory. E.g., A1: RDL / A2: Row — both 3x10.
- Modified GVT — 5x10 of antagonist pairings. E.g., A1: Chest Press / A2: Bent-Over Row. High volume, great for density.
- GBC (Body Comp) — Upper + Lower supersets with metabolic demand. E.g., A1: Goblet Squat / A2: Overhead Press.
- Post-Exhaustion — Big lift followed by targeted burnout. E.g., A1: Chin-Ups / A2: Bicep Curls.
6-Week Structure (Post-Exhaustion Method Example)
| Week | Stimulus | Phase | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3x15–20 (Controlled Tempo) | Adaptation | High volume, lighter load, groove technique |
| 2 | 4x8 (4-sec eccentric) | Tension | TUT for motor control and joint stability |
| 3 | 5x5 (Explosive concentric) | Strength | Lower reps, heavier load, speed focus |
| 4 | 4x8 (Moderate tempo) | Progressive Overload | Heavier loads, tissue tolerance, hypertrophy |
| 5 | 5x10 (Standard tempo) | Capacity | Muscle-building, high total volume |
| 6 | 3x15 (Deload Tempo) | Deload | Reduced loading, recovery, reinforce movement |
Programming Rules (Non-Negotiables)
- Reps MUST match across all exercises in a superset
- All movements must be scalable and trackable
- No planks, bikes, or rowers in programming blocks (finishers only)
- Every class must be progressive — clients track load and improve over time
- Follow the method throughout all 6 weeks — no random changes
- Use accessories to support primary lifts (e.g., hamstring curls after hinge patterns)
Sample Programs
Strength + Hypertrophy
- A1: Barbell Front Squat — 5x5 (Strength)
- B1: Split Squat — 3x10 / B2: Hamstring Curl — 3x10
- C1: Cable Chop — 3x10 / C2: Lateral Raise — 3x10
Modified GVT Style
- A1: Flat DB Press — 5x10 / A2: Chest-Supported Row — 5x10
- B1: Goblet Squat — 3x12 / B2: Wall Sit DB Curl — 3x12
- C1: Hanging Knee Raise — 3x15 / C2: Lateral Raise — 3x15
FORTIFY — Programming Framework
Goal: Fill in real-world movement gaps with high-effort, low-skill, low-load, full-body conditioning.
Style: Functional, gritty, real-world movement. Low eccentric stress. Controlled chaos.
Movement Patterns (7 Categories)
| Pattern | Examples |
|---|---|
| Carry | Farmer carries, front rack carries, sandbag carries |
| Hold | Wall sits, plank holds, isometric rows |
| Drive | Sled push, sled drag, sled press |
| Rotation | Cross-body slams, rotation throws |
| Throw / Slams | Ball slams, wall throws, rotational tosses |
| Jump | Broad jump, lateral hops, single-leg jumps |
| Groundwork | Bear crawls, crab walks, sprawls |
Stimulus Options
- Time-Based — 30:30, 45:15, 60:60 intervals
- Effort-Based (RPE 7–9) — Max effort with recovery managed by movement type
- Distance-Based — e.g., 100ft sled drive, 50ft carries
- Active Rest — Isometric stations for recovery within work
- Breathing Management — Coaches cue breath gears to control pace
Approved Methods
- Density Circuits — As many quality rounds as possible in a set time
- Flow State Work — Continuous movement at 70% for long blocks (e.g., 2 min per station x 6 stations)
- EMOMs — One movement per minute (e.g., 50ft sled push every minute on the minute)
- Station-Based Circuits — Rotate after timed intervals
- Contrast Sets — Heavy sled followed by fast movement (crawl, slam)
- Hybrid Pairings — Power (sled) + control (plank hold)
6-Week Stimulus Progression
| Week | Method | Time Domain / Effort Target |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | EMOM + Flow | EMOM sled / 2-min carries @ 70% |
| 2 | Circuit + Density | 45:15 / AMQRAP in 5 min |
| 3 | Flow + Hybrid Stations | 12-min flow + active rest pairings |
| 4 | EMOM + Slams | 60s work / 30s rest |
| 5 | Contrast Sets + Flow | Sled into crawl combo + 2-min drive |
| 6 | Tabata + Flow Finish | 20:10 x 4 sets, then 8-min grind |
Programming Rules
- Same movement patterns consistent throughout all 6 weeks
- Exercises may rotate slightly (max 2 per category)
- Stimulus and/or method changes weekly — not movement focus
- Choose up to 2 methods per class for clarity
Semi-Private Programming Framework
Semi-Private is personalized programming delivered in a small-group setting. Every client is on their own WES-scaled program. The coach's job is to deliver that program, track progress, and keep the group cohesive.
The WES System
| Letter | Dimension | Score Range |
|---|---|---|
| W | Weight-Bearing load | 0–3 |
| E | Eccentric Contraction stress | 0–3 |
| S | Skill / Technical Demand | 0–3 |
Total score 0–9. Each exercise in our library is pre-scored. Coaches program from the appropriate tier.
| Tier | Score | Client Profile |
|---|---|---|
| White | 0–2 | Beginner, rehab, early-phase clients |
| Blue | 3–6 | Intermediate clients |
| Black | 7–9 | Advanced — high skill and high stress tolerance |
Movement Patterns (7 Required)
- Squat / Knee
- Hinge
- Horizontal Push
- Horizontal Pull
- Vertical Push
- Vertical Pull
- Core + Carries
Template count by tier: White (2 templates), Blue (3 templates), Black (3 templates).
Template Structure
| Component | Spec |
|---|---|
| Days per template | 2 (Day 1 and Day 2) |
| Blocks per day | 3 |
| Exercises per day | 5–6 |
| Patterns per day | 3–4 of the 7 |
Block structure: Block 1 = Strength (1–2 lifts, straight set or superset) | Block 2 = Hypertrophy (superset) | Block 3 = Isolation / Core (superset, lighter load)
Stimulus Rules
- All supersets must have matching reps
- No pyramids or mismatched reps in a superset
- No planks, bikes, or rowers in programming blocks
- Carries, sleds, and loaded marches are allowed (measurable)
- Every movement must be trackable (except White-tier)
6-Week Rhythm
Same exercises for all 6 weeks. Only load changes. Optional stimulus evolution:
- Weeks 1–3: 3x10 (Moderate Load)
- Weeks 4–6: 4x8 (Increased Load)
Programming Non-Negotiables
- Use scalable, loadable, measurable exercises (except White)
- Reps must match across each superset
- Do not switch methods mid-cycle
- All exercises in one of the 7 patterns
- Progress over novelty — always
- No overlapping exercises at the same block and level
- Every block has a purpose — no filler
Warm-Ups and Finishers
These are NOT programmed in advance — coaches deliver them live.
- Warm-Up (5–7 min) — Performance-based. Raise HR, prep joints, establish tone.
- Finisher (5–7 min) — Sleds, EMOMs, simple isometrics, or cardio. Optional but recommended. Use coach creativity here.
Sample Day 1 (Blue Template)
- Block 1 — A: Barbell Front Squat — 4x6 (Strength)
- Block 2 — B1: DB Split Squat — 3x10 / B2: DB Row — 3x10
- Block 3 — C1: Lat Pulldown — 3x12 / C2: Lateral Raise — 3x12
HB CLASS Coaching Guide — Session Standards
This guide covers the non-negotiable coaching behaviors for every class at the Huntington Beach location. These standards apply to all class types.
Your Role
You are not supervising a workout. You are delivering an experience. Every class is a chance to coach, connect, and raise the bar. You are responsible for the room's energy, movement quality, and client engagement — whether it's a sweat session or a technical strength class.
Pre-Class Standards
- Greet every single person as they walk in — even mid-conversation, acknowledge them
- Know their names — use the roster, ask, practice. Goal: use at least 3 names per session
- Communicate when class starts so nobody stands around confused
- Brief them on what kind of class they're walking into (effort-based, technical, team-focused)
Demonstration Standards
- Demonstrate every station or movement — physically show it, no matter how simple
- Give the gist — not every cue. You'll coach details as they move
- The demo sets the tone. A lazy demo produces lazy form
Communication During Class
- Over-communicate: What's next? Where should they be? How should they do it?
- Tell them you'll be making rounds to correct and support — set the expectation
- Clear direction = better flow = higher client confidence = better experience
Coaching by Class Type
| Class | Energy Split | Primary Coaching Behavior |
|---|---|---|
| BURN | 80% motivation / 20% coaching | Drive momentum, loud and encouraging, group callouts, tempo pacing |
| BUILD | 80% coaching / 20% motivation | Station-to-station corrections, individual load guidance, specific affirmations |
| FORTIFY | 50% / 50% | Correct form while maintaining group energy — blend of both |
Individual Coaching
- Check in often: "How are you feeling? How's that weight? How's that movement?"
- Affirm up close privately and from across the room publicly
- Close affirmation: "That hinge looks way better this round. Keep it locked in."
- Public affirmation: "Maria — love that slow control on the eccentric! Everyone match that!"
Mid-Class Reset
Core Coaching Habits Checklist
- Greet everyone by name when possible
- Demonstrate every movement before coaching it
- Over-communicate expectations throughout the class
- Use 3+ individual names in every class
- Make at least one public affirmation of good form
- Make at least one personal affirmation of progress
- Move around the full room — never plant yourself
- Use motivational cues that are specific and energizing (not empty phrases)
- Reset group energy at least once mid-class
- Adapt coaching style to the class format
Onboarding SOP — First 4 Sessions
Session 1 — Introduction & Assessment
Introduction
- Welcome the client warmly to their first session and introduce yourself as their coach.
- Introduce the client to at least two other members to encourage a sense of community.
Warm-Up
Guide the client to a suitable warm-up machine (e.g., treadmill, stationary bike) to prepare their body for the workout.
Gameplan Explanation (2 min)
"Here's the gameplan today: we'll focus on a series of foundational exercises, which will serve as your assessment and form the basis of your program for the next 4 sessions."
"By the end of this month, we'll have enough data to identify your imbalances, deficiencies, and strengths."
"Get familiar with these exercises — they will greatly benefit you during this period."
Onboarding Workout Program
Warm-Up Circuit — 1 min each, 3 sets:
- MB Standing Pec Press — 1 min
- Single-arm Farmer Carry — 1 min per side
Main Circuit — 3 sets, 2 min rest between sets:
- 1-mile ride on the Assault Bike
- Sled Push to Sled Drag (up, down, up, down)
- 200ft Endless Rope
Post-Workout
- Provide feedback on 1–3 things you noticed (technique, areas for improvement)
- Assign the client 2 easy homework items to address
- Ensure the client is scheduled for their next session
- Next day: text to check in and confirm homework completion
- Send an update to the Fitness Coaching Group email
Sessions 2–4 — Progression & Support
- Program stays the same — do not progress exercises yet
- Continue warm-up exercises at the start of each session
- Adjust intensity and duration as the client progresses
- Provide individualized coaching and support during each session
- Monitor homework completion and set achievable goals with the client
- Foster a supportive, motivating fitness community during group workouts
- Continuously assess the client's progress and modify the program as needed