Are you a gym beginner, thinking of signing up as part of your fitness goals? Well, it’s possible you already have! Congratulations on taking the first step towards a healthier life!
At first, it might be intimidating to see all the different equipment and spaces to exercise in. Not to mention, the names of classes that you’re not familiar with. Or, the new faces of the members all around you that seem confident and fit.
But don’t worry, we have put together this gym beginner guide so you can start in the gym. We want to help you feel more prepared.
Basic Tips For A Gym Beginner
We’ve all been in a situation when you don’t follow through with something. It’s tough because you feel uncomfortable in an unfamiliar place, and the gym is no exception.
Of course, the first weeks can be daunting. Seeing so many people in their routine while you struggle to understand what you should be doing.
So you can start on the right foot in this fitness adventure, we are going to take you through some helpful steps. Sharing with you some basic tips of what you should know for a beginner gym workout to be successful.
1. Information Is Powerful for Fitness
After completing the registration, gym staff usually offer an orientation guide. New members, via a tour of the premises and a brochure full of information, get to know about what is on offer.
Depending on the level of your membership, you may have different levels of access to what the gym provides.
Additionally, the staff will ask a series of questions to help them assess your current level of fitness. They will ask you about your goals and intentions for what you expect from your membership.
Some of the questions may include:
- the previous analysis of your physical state
- do you have any injuries to be aware of
- what types of exercises you like or do not like
- if you have any previous experience in the gym
From this conversation, they can offer you advice for a beginner workout plan. They will be able to help you know where you should start and what machines you could use.
2. Instructions Always Help A Gym Beginner
Most gyms are divided into different areas. Normally, there is an area for cardio equipment and another for strength training with weights.
A lot of the gym equipment will have printed instructions attached to show you step-by-step how to use them.
Alternatively, a staff member can talk you through how to use a specific machine if you need more help.
So, don’t be afraid to ask for assistance, injuries can occur if you use these machines incorrectly.
Plus, getting that helpful advice, in the beginning, is going to set you on the right course. It will not only give your more confidence but also help maximise the effectiveness of your workout. Each exercise should engage the correct muscles to get the benefit of it.
You will discover, in the cardio area you’ll find equipment to help give your heart a good workout like:
- treadmills
- stair climbers
- exercise bikes
- rowing machines
- other ellipticals
It won’t take you long to get to know how to use them but a brief guide from a staff member will help you get familiar faster.
In the weight section, you’ll see a variety of gym equipment such as:
- machines
- free weights
- cables
- balls
- other varied items
You will be able to target different muscle groups and add variety to your program.
Most gyms organize their strength training equipment in a way that makes it easier to target each of the muscle groups:Â
- chest
- back
- shoulders
- biceps
- triceps
- abs
- lowerbody
3. Try Some Fun Options
Another great fun option is to join a group fitness class.
You’ll find a professional directing the group to help you learn what to do and encourage you to make the most of it. Most gyms and fitness centers have at least one studio for these types of classes.
Some of the most fun and interesting classes for beginners in the gym are the following:
- Pilates
- Yoga
- Zumba
- Body Pump
- Barre
- Spinning
You could also ask if your gym has specialized classes such as:
- maintenance gymnastics
- Body Balance
- boot camp
- weight loss programs
- swimming courses to learn how to swim or improve your technique to exercise in the pool.
Classes are a great way to meet more people and stay motivated in your exercise program.
4. Shortcut Your Success with a Personal Trainer
A personal trainer can be one of the best investments you make toward your fitness and health goals. They are experts at helping you achieve real gains through using a variety of exercises.
Having someone coach you to make the most of your:
- strength
- endurance
- toning
- weight loss
- overall health aims
With specialised knowledge, they assist you in using different equipment. They focus on specific needs and keep you accountable for your declared intentions.
A personal trainer helps you get results faster, particularly as a part of your beginner workout plan. They will be able to modify your program as you progress. You will be protected as they help minimise potential injury.
Also, they show you the correct way to do the exercises or routines. The personal trainer cost is usually in addition to your gym membership.
5. An Option To Stay On Track
One of the proven strategies of long term success in reaching fitness and health goals is to keep yourself accountable to someone else.
Recruit one of your friends or develop a friendship at the gym. Partner with someone that you can trust to encourage, support and keep you on track when you feel like giving up.
Set yourself up for success from the beginning. Your health is a long term priority and it’s worth arming yourself with every advantage.
Set Yourself Up For Gym Beginner Success
So, to summarise, what do you need to know as a gym beginner?
- Utilise the knowledge of the staff and get to know your starting point.
- Get familiar with the gym itself, ask for instructions and don’t be afraid to ask twice.
- Check out the classes that are available and try one out
- Consider working with a trainer to help you shortcut the process
- Partner up with an accountability buddy who can help you keep motivated.
- Educate yourself on tips and tricks that can help your health and wellness journey.
You can set yourself up for success from the start if you think about these things. Far too many people fail in their long-term fitness goals because they haven’t taken the time to begin correctly.
You’re already ahead of the game. Now, get to it and enjoy the gym!
