Workout with confidence in 2017
New year, new you? The new year always gives people that little push they need to get their rear into gear and why not? It’s been proven time after time that a workout not only gives you a figure to envy but it can also drastically improve your mood too. It’s a win, win situ.
If you’ve already taken the leap. Well done! We’ve got a few pointers to help make your transition into gym life as seamfree as possible.
So you’ve signed up, your new sneaks look the biz, now all you have to do is show up. Piece of cake, right? Whoa tiger, not so fast. We know you’re first session at a new gym or class can be a really daunting experience so here’s an at-a-glance guide to turn you from quivering exercise newbie to fearless gym bunny quick time.
1. Fake it
Self-consciousness can be easier said than done to conquer but it helps if you have a bit of insight into your fellow gym-goers.
Erm helllooo: most, if not all, other members will be totally wrapped up in themselves and in what they’re doing. So you may feel a bit silly as you master all the moving parts of the cross trainer (who knew the handles could hit you in the face as you climb into the pedals?) or fiddle with the seat height on the chest press but truth be told those around you will either blissfully unaware and/or know exactly you feel.
Keep in mind that most people just respect the fact you’re there. And never, ever hesitate to ask for help.
2. Reach out
Instructors and PTs walking the floor love to be asked for their opinion and advice. Whether you want to know if you’re better off on the leg press or the squat rack, grab a member of staff and get chatting. And if a knowledgeable instructor ever happens to tap you on the shoulder mid-set to discreetly correct your form, thank your lucky stars. Any worthy fitness professional will take their chances and risk an earful if it means keeping you safe.
3. Look the part
Looking the part is really important, whichever stage of your fitness journey you happen to be at but sometimes it’s a big enough struggle to get yourself to the gym, never mind worrying whether the elastic in those leggings will hold out for the duration or whether or not your bra’s supportive enough. Before you start on your gym journey, make a kit list. Do you have a good sports bra? Are your trainers supportive enough for the activity you’ve got planned? Do your workout clothes allow you to move freely? There’s such a variety of functional, flattering fitness kit available nowadays you shouldn’t struggle when it comes to finding something for every shape, size and budget. You should be able to kit yourself out in the local supermarket.
Workout without the worry
4. Fine tune gym etiquette
It’s important to keep other members on side if you want a pleasant gym atmosphere whilst you train so it can be worth knowing in advance what the general gym floor pet peeves are.
5. Return equipment after use
Imagine tripping up a another user with your stray dumbbells. Awkward. You’re also likely to be faced with an irate exerciser if you abandon weights in the middle of the gym floor so no one can find them. As soon as you’re done, simply return your kit to its home. Happy days.
6. Don’t hog machines between sets
Fiddling with your playlist in as you rest between sets on the most popular bit of kit in the gym is unlikely to win you any friends. Use your savvy – if there’s someone looking longingly at your machine, have a heart, jump off and let them get their first set out of the way. They’re unlikely to hog the machine (gym peeve), particularly if they know you’re going to need to jump back on sooner rather than later.
7. Don’t sweat it
Leaving a puddle of sweat on a machine is will almost certainly leave you being germ shamed. And rightly so. Not only have you abandoned a pool if your own perspiration but you’re also making the assumption that someone else will clean up your mess.
8. Don’t fear free weights
While you may want to try out the resistance training machines on your first few gym visits, it’s worth picking up a dumbbell or two at some stage. Free weight exercises tend to better mimic every day movements plus they’re more versatile – if you want to supplement your gym routine with some shorter home routines, first is a good idea.
9. Beats to help the burn
A good playlist is essential. Music has been proven to help you workout harder and for longer as well as elevating mood, helping you to keep good pace and even motivating you to get to the gym in the first instance. If you want to feel the burn after a tough day at work, perfect the sounds.
Good luck & go get em!
Oh and pssst, just before you go, we’ve got some exciting news coming real soon on the health & nutrition and we can’t wait to share it with you. Keep checking our website for further updates.
