Feel Comfortable At The Gym, Part 2
In part one of this blog I explored how you can begin to feel comfortable in your own skin at the gym. So you can focus on your workout, rather than allowing distractions like worrying about your body, the clothing you are wearing or even other people working out in the same space as you. You’ll gain focus on your goal of completing a fabulous workout, so that you can see results that meet your personal goals. In part 2 of this blog I will introduce a few ways in which you can make the environment feel more familiar. So that it becomes a space where you feel happy when you workout. Follow these tips below so that you can feel at ease in your training routines.
Confidence In Your Training
Have a plan for your workout, before you leave the house, think of this as an integral part of your gym kit. Make this as important as packing your towel or trainers! (I’m sure you wouldn't want to forget those!) No matter if you plan to workout for a long or a short session, it is often helpful to have something to follow along with, this will guide you and you will be more likely to stay on track if you have a plan for each session.
There will be less opportunity to get bored during your workout, or time to feel uninspired which could lead to a temptation to leave the gym, before you’ve had a chance to burn off any of those calories. You can track your exercises with the help of a good old pen and piece of paper or you can choose to download one of the many available apps on your phone. This will help you note down where you are at with your session and your overall progress as you continue your fitness journey.
Familiarise Yourself With The Gym And The Facilities
Do you sometimes feel a little bit flustered when you start working out in a new gym? I tend to get lost quickly or become discombobulated in new environments so I like to get to know the place I will be working out in. This might include making sure that I’m happy with what's available to me as a member. You may find useful information posted around such as timetables, how to book in with a personal trainer or advertisements for new classes. I know you guys wouldn't want to miss out on a chance to try out something new and exciting that your gym might offer.
Take a look around the gym, you will most likely find all of the information you are looking for, if not don't be afraid to ask a member of staff. Perhaps you’ve seen something occurring at the gym that you’d like to try. I often get inspiration to try out new activities. At my local gym the cardio machines are upstairs and they directly overlook the sports hall below, so as I sit and cycle or do my warm ups on the cross trainer I can look down and see all kinds of sports taking place from cricket, karate, roller derby and pickleball. This often inspires me to learn about new sports or introduces me to things I've never heard of before!
Partake in an Induction to the gym
Most commercial gyms will offer a gym induction to its members. This might seem intimidating at first or the thought of an induction might sound just down right boring, maybe you think well, how hard can it be to get to grips with a treadmill? I’m sure I used one before and I was just fine… But an induction really is a great starting point to get to grips with the gym equipment and how to use them safely and correctly, because nobody wants to become famous for those gym fail videos on YouTube!
Learning the equipment well will ensure you can complete your exercises with great form as well as making sure you understand how to adjust the machines for your body. You can then seamlessly move from machine to machine with confidence and have a great first workout, on your own.
Take a friend with you
Friends can provide you with support, if you have a training partner they can push you forward, maybe there will be some gentle competition, you will continue to egg each other on and keep each other accountable so that you both stay on track.
The saying Power in numbers couldn't be more true when applied to exercising. Do you enjoy the buzz of a full class of people all partaking in an activity together? I recently attended a Clubercise class for the first time, It was fantastic, I loved the atmosphere. With bright disco lights and glow sticks in hand, I wasn't really sure what to expect out of my first class, but the excitement and anticipation really added another layer of enjoyment to the workout, being active doesn't have to be dull, working out in groups can give you a boost to continue your workouts and they will also be a whole lot of FUN.
Willpower and Discipline
Being consistent with your workouts will ultimately build your confidence, you will learn as you go and over time you will start to see the results that you're hoping for. Be determined to stay on track. Missing some sessions is a great way to fall off the fitness wagon. If you miss a workout or two don’t worry, try to pick back up where you left off. Don't let this derail you, I know it's super tempting at this point to just throw in the towel and give up. But now is not the time! it's time to keep pushing through, you’ve got this.
Goals and tracking
Set some goals, so that you have a plan and something to work towards during your time at the gym. I know how tempting it can be to walk in the gym, use a couple of the machines, feel bored, then walk out, feeling no better than when you started. Your goals don't have to be HUGE, keep them small to begin with so they are attainable. Continue to track your progress, so that you can celebrate all those small wins.
Work with a Personal Trainer
If you are new to working out, the guidance of a personal trainer will be a hugely valuable tool. Working alongside a trainer will make sure you never feel lost or bored. They will be able to provide guidance to you every step of the way. Making sure you have fun and enjoyable workouts.
They can guide you and have the skills to make sure you reach your goals. They will be able to keep you motivated and on track too.
One of the best benefits in my opinion is being able to have a designated time slot booked in for your workout in advance.This means you're much less likely to cancel. We are all very good at making excuses and reasons why we don't have any time to attend the gym, but a schedule with a personal trainer provides that much needed accountability.
Use a training app or follow an online program
Maybe you’d like guidance but you're not quite ready to work with a Personal Trainer. Looking to digital platforms might help, you will find numerous Personal Trainers who provide both beginner and more advanced programs via website and downloadable apps. Take these along with you to the gym. Having a plan ready in hand when you arrive will give you the extra confidence that you know why you are in the gym and you will have a successful workout that is tailored to you.
Overall
Planning ahead before your session is the best way to stay on track with your workout goals. Feeling good at the gym can really make it more fun and you will know how to keep your workouts fresh and excited so there’s no time for plateaus or boredom.
