How to Make the Most of Your Time at the Gym

Short, sweaty workouts are the way forward.…

Short, sweaty workouts are the way forward.

As someone who had probably only set foot in a gym about 3 times before last year, I totally get how it can be a scary and intimidating place. I still struggle every now and then if I’m going somewhere new, but I’ve got a couple helpful tricks that have helped me feel a little more at home. I thought I’d share them with you guys just in case you’re new to working out.

Decide on your routine before you get there

This might seem like common sense to most of you, but it was a big thing for me and was incredibly liberating. If you’re new to working out, then gyms are full of equipment you aren’t familiar with, which can be a bit of a turn-off. Establishing exactly which exercises you’re going to be doing, which equipment you’ll need (down to the weight), and how long you’ll be there, will make it easy once you turn up to get on with it. It also means that if the piece of equipment you need for one exercise is taken, you have a whole other list of exercises to do until it frees up.

Don’t hotfoot it past the guys and girls at the reception desk

Even though it might not seem like it, those two well-trained people at the front desk aren’t actually trying to intimidate you. They’re there to lend you a hand. When I first started going to the gym I’d hurry past them with a quick smile and then walk around looking confused for a while. I’ve since learnt better. Walk up to them, smile, and ask if they can show you around.

This is perfect because it means you know exactly where to find everything later, and if there’s anything you don’t see that you might need, you have the opportunity to ask about it. It’s also great because you can scope out an area to work out by yourself (if you need one).

Don’t go doing it alone

If you’re new to working out, i.e. you’ve never worked out before, or the last time you did was over two years ago; then don’t ‘suck it up and do it’. I’d advise one of two things: 1) ask a friend who you know is in the know to come with you the first couple of times and show you how to use everything. They’ll help you watch your form and make you feel more at ease with all the equipment. You can also 2) Sign up for one or two introductory sessions with a personal trainer. This is awesome because PT’s really know their stuff, and they should be able to help instill a little confidence in you.

Do your own thing

Don’t compare your time, your weights, your weight, or your outfit to anyone at the gym. Show up, do your thing, and get out of there (unless they have a sauna, in which case, use the sauna and then get out of there).

Now GO! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, any time you do anything new it’s a little uncomfortable and scary but it gets easier the more you do it. Just keep at it. It’ll be #worthit!

/Femi, The Girl Who Hates Working Out

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