First time going the gym

So you finally bit the bullet and got that gym membership you've been thinking about.

Now what's next?

You probably have a million and one questions running though your brain right now.

Where do I even start?

What do I wear?

Will people be watching me?

What workout will I do?

The first time stepping inside the gym well maybe this is your second meaning the first time you just signed up for your gym membership and left. You aren't alone with these feelings. I to myself was terrified to walk into an actual gym. I was using a family friends home gym at the time and my boyfriend now husband finally talked me into going to the local gym he trained at.

Chances are, a lot of these feelings will disappear when you become more comfortable with the gym.

Lets start here first.

The “best” workout is the one you will do. 

I’m often asked about . What’s the best machine? The best class? What’s the best time of day to workout? What’s best, strength first or cardio first?  You get the idea.    Here is my answer and it is always the same. THE BEST WORKOUT IS THE ONE YOU DO AND STICK WITH! Your main goal isn’t to become workout champ of the world: it’s to create a positive first experience so that you keep up this healthy habit.

Don’t be afraid to talk to the gym staff or other gym member and let them know you’re new. They want you to be safe and feel welcomed. Ideally, the gym staff/owners would have given you a tour before you signed up for a membership or trial, but they didn’t, it doesn’t hurt to ask.

Here are a few tips to help you feel more confident in the gym on your first day

If you can a personal trainer would be your best step, sign up for five sessions. This one-on-one coaching is a great way to learn how to best use the equipment for your needs. You'll be able to work on your form and get on a workout routine. Bonus point you will know a face in the gym now.

If you can't afford a trainer, ask one of them to show you around for a few minutes. They will typically show you 2 to 3 different machines and help build your confidence. Don't be shy; ask for help. Another great resource is other gym members, most of them won't mind answering a question or two.

Next, is another important tip. The watches and lookers. The important thing to keep in mind, however, is that while they are watching, they most likely aren’t judging.  It is human nature to observe each other. They might be looking because they like your workout outfit or you are going an exercise they aren't sure how. Don't get inside your head.

Listen.  Your first day at the gym can be wildly intimidating…or it can be wildly exhilarating. I encourage people to look at it from the latter point of view, this is the start of a brand new, life changing journey.

Acknowledge your fears and concerns, and know you areNOT alone in these emotions. Everyone once started at the begging. Don't compare your chapter 1 to someone else chapter 20.