A Beginners Guide to mastering the gym

I am about to share with you how going to the gym for the first time can be an actually okay process for those of you who might be like, “Nah, not today. I don’t know what to do. I’ll go tomorrow…” and then tomorrow doesn’t come, for like a really long time, or maybe even ever. 

Or maybe you fall under this category, “I’ve been going to the gym for a while now and it almost feels like a second home, until I step into a new gym… Then all of a sudden I’m wandering around wondering what to do and stuck sitting on a mat or treadmill going half speed watching Instagram reels, saying it will be better next time.” 

1st up!

Yes, I have experienced both of these trains of thought. 

Most of us do. 

2nd! 

I’ve got some tips to help make starting at the gym, or a new gym a little bit easier. 

Read below. 

NEW TO THE GYM???

Check out the gym online and see if they have their prices posted. Go in with an idea of what you want and know that the sign up process, if done in person, will take time. Plan that accordingly and maybe don’t expect to do a long, intense workout the first day. 

Also bring a clean pair of shoes, a water bottle, sweat towel, and a lock. Though these aren’t necessary they may be super helpful for making the first day go a little smoother and give you a nice feeling of preparedness. 

If you sign up in person, expect that the front desk/sales reps are probably going to try and up-sell you, because well, that’s their job. Recognize that, and hear them out. You can always politely decline after, but you never know, maybe they have something that would actually benefit you. They will often use this time to offer you discounted personal training sessions , consultations, tanning, etc. These add-ons can be beneficial. Having some guidance the first couple months can certainly increase your chances of consistency and success. 

Now that you are in, take a tour. You can do this with a club member, or on your own. Ask questions if you can or make mental notes of things you might want to learn more about on your own. This way you can hit that google search bar with intent when you get home. 

Now the workout. Put your stuff in your locker; attach your key to your shoelace so you don’t lose it while working out, and go find a piece of cardio equipment or an exercise mat. Get comfortable in your new space by trying some light treadmill walking, or mobility thus allowing you time to scope out the space and make a plan. 

Your first day should be about getting comfortable, not getting a great workout in. Light cardio, light mobility, light use of easy-to-use machines is where day 1 is at. Maybe they have a massage chair? Jump on it. 

Now go on with your day, with all your workout ideas saved for later. 

Later that day you will need to make a plan. When are you going to the gym next? What are you going to work on? Take some time to plan this out so that day 2 feels more like day 1 of you crushing your goals.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most people at the gym, even though they probably have headphones in, and a nice resting b* face, are actually happy to help. Take advantage of the ones who are! There were most likely in your shoes once too, remember!

NEW GYM TO YOU???

Take a read of the above because even though you have been going to the gym for a long time, going to a new gym can be intimidating. Walk in there like you own it. 

Even though you might feel like you should know something, don’t be afraid to ask. Not only do rules often change from gym to gym, but how the machines/equipment work is also often different. 

Once again, you got this, and you belong there!

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