The first time you step foot in the gym can be kind of intimidating, right? So many people who seem like they know what they’re doing; some people writing it all down in a workout journal; or following along effortlessly to an online workout; people working with personal trainers, or nonchalantly operating a treadmill and texting.
Well I can’t blame you if you’re a little intimidated.
Especially when you’re faced with the countless warning labels on machines that exclaim that SERIOUS bodily injury may occur while operating them.
The fear of getting hurt can actually keep many a beginner away from the weight room, so what’s a gym newcomer to do?
If you are unable to enlist the help of a personal trainer or staff member, do what common sense would suggest.
ASK.
Tap on the shoulder of a fellow exerciser and see if they can offer you help.
More often than not, as long as you don’t interrupt someone mid-set, most people are HAPPY to show you what to do, or at least point you in the direction of a qualified professional. Don’t be shy!
Here’s another great newbie tip.
“Fake it `til you make it.”
Seriously, some of the people in gyms who look like they know what they are doing really don’t. I’m not suggesting you act like you know it all, but at the very least, read the descriptions on the machines and see if you can easily figure out their intended purpose.
I’ve walked into many new gyms, looked at new exercise devices and walked away from those I couldn’t figure out and used the ones I could. The good thing about machines is that you’re highly unlikely to break them or hurt yourself. Set the stack weight to a light one and increase from there.
Use your gyms offer for a free orientation or free workout with a trainer.
Gyms will often offer new members a session with a personal trainer at no cost. You are by no means obliged to pay that trainer beyond the the initial consult. Use that time wisely with her and get to know the lay of the land, how the equipment is set up, and if they are organized by body part (e.g., leg machines in one area, back and chest in another, etc.)
If a trainer can’t do this, ask the membership director of the gym give you a walk-through or take a few minutes to wander around your new gym, exploring.
Establish an easy, safe habit.
If you’re completely new, start with a machine you might be more familiar with; a bike, a treadmill, or a stair climber. After a little while on one of these machines, you’ll have established the habit of GETTING to the gym in the first place, and you’ll be more than likely to tread over to the weight room.
In all seriousness, though it’s important to have fun with the whole process, if something hurts or doesn’t feel right, STOP. You can always start with a light weight until you feel comfortable with the machine.
So hopefully now you see how to go about getting started at the gym. Don’t be shy and just start, that’s the best thing you can do. Trust me, it gets easier every time!
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