A lot of people have a love hate relationship with the gym. As a former supporter of the latter, I know that the main reason for this was feeling wholly out of place and somewhat intimidated the second I set foot in the gym. Fast forward to now and this could not be further from the truth. I see the gym as an escape, a playground, a place to try new things, build strength and have fun whilst working up a sweat. So here are six little tips that I picked up to help you find some confidence and love for the gym.
DO YOUR RESEARCH
The best way to make sure your first visit to a new gym is not too overwhelming is to do some research in advance. With the huge scope of material available online today, finding relevant information has never been easier. It’s worth doing some research on the muscles that make up your body to give yourself a brief overview, how to use some basic machines found in a gym and which of these machines are used to train these different muscles, as well as finding pictures of your chosen gym to work out the layout are all easily accessible. Knowledge is power, go into the gym with as much information as you can absorb.
EXPLORE AND BECOME FAMILIAR
The second step, after obviously signing up to a gym and doing some research, is getting yourself there. That’s right, your first gym visit does not even have to involve any actual exercise. Take a look around, work out where everything is, make yourself aware of your surroundings, read machine descriptions and take your time. Many use the cardio area as a safety blanket as it is familiar to most of us, but to really get the most out of the gym and avoid the boredom of walking on a treadmill, really explore all the areas available. Trust me, no one will look at you funny. All gyms will offer a free tour too, which often provide an opportunity to get to grips with equipment, class schedules, changing facilities and to ask any practical questions.
INVEST IN A FEW PT SESSIONS
The most important part of going to the gym is making sure you are exercising safely. If you are entering the gym as a complete beginner, it is often wise to have a session, or several, with a personal trainer to check your form is correct to avoid injury and to give you an array of exercises to try. Some gyms also offer a free PT session when you join or even every few months, so it is worth enquiring about. Regular check-ins with someone qualified is only going to aid your progress and improve your confidence.
GET A GYM BUDDY
Exercising in a busy gym can feel less intimidating if you are working out with someone else. Getting a gym buddy is a great way to keep exercise regular and hold yourself accountable for scheduled sessions – just like if you were going to meet a friend for lunch or shopping. It is always a great way to gain confidence and push each other. If you struggle to regularly schedule sessions with a friend, going to classes is a great way to organise regular visits to the gym, make new friends and try new forms of exercise. Either way, having someone to motivate and support you will ultimately increase your confidence in the gym.
INVEST IN SOME DECENT GYM GEAR
Buying gym gear is my new favourite hobby. I cannot tell you enough how important it is to feel comfortable whilst you are training – the last thing you want is to worry about your leggings slipping down during squats or your headphones getting caught in the cable machine – been there, done that, not worth repeating. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get good quality gym wear either, but it is worth investing in clothes and accessories that will be long-lasting and comfortable. Some of my favourite brands for active wear are: Sweaty Betty, Adidas, Gymshark, Domyos and Sainsbury’s.
Last but not least:
DO NOT WORRY ABOUT ANYONE AROUND YOU
The only person you should be worrying about in the gym is you. In a world full of judgement, the gym should be a place to feel comfortable trying new exercises, lifting heavier and training without interruption – when you fail and succeed. That person you think is staring at you or talking about you whilst you train? Likelihood is, they are not and are instead focusing on their own training. And when you occasionally come across someone who’s a bit too big for their boots and tries to dish out ‘advice’, politely remind them that they are not your personal trainer and don’t let them put you off. Never allow others to distract you from achieving what you want in your gym sessions.
All in all, the gym is a place to better yourself, achieve goals and improve your health and well-being. All these steps can be taken to make it feel more accessible and comfortable to use, but ultimately it is up to you how much you benefit from it. So here is a reminder that you do not NEED anything – opinions, pressure or validation to be able to use a gym or workout the way you most enjoy. Give it a try, stick with it and use the gym however you like. You might just find you love it.
Until next time!
Abi
x