A handy guide to help with your first time at the gym
We all know that walking into a gym for the first time can be a daunting experience, but we're here to try and take some of that stress away, including pointers on what to wear, what to expect and what to do!
You’ve signed up – now what?
Once you’ve signed up to your chosen centre, you’ll be able to arrange a gym induction. This is a brief tour from a personal trainer or staff member and is designed to give you a better understanding of the gym’s facilities, how to use them and what sort of training might be able to help you with your own fitness goals.
It also gives you the perfect opportunity to ask any questions about the setting or anything that may be worrying you. Staff are there to help so use this is as a tool to help you build your confidence – there’s no such thing as a silly question if it’s going to keep yourself and others safe!
When’s best to go?
One question that is often asked by a new starter is the best time to go. Quite honestly, there is no correct answer. It is quite often suggested that you should listen to your own body and schedule your workouts to fit with your lifestyle. If you’re an early riser and you have time to workout in the mornings then great, but if you would prefer to wait until later in the day to get it done then that’s fine too.
There’s no right or wrong way to success and these habits usually form quicker when it coincides with your own routine. The most important thing is that the workout gets done and not necessarily when that is.
What to wear!?
Feeling comfortable when working out is just one small victory to tick off when getting used to the gym environment. You don’t have to wear the latest trainers or hi-tech equipment. Here’s a handy tick sheet so you know what to take for your first session:
- Appropriate training gear (comfort is key!)
- Gym shoes (sturdy trainers work best)
- Towel (for wiping down equipment after use)
- Towel and washing equipment (for a post-workout shower)
- Post-workout snack (banana or cereal bars work well)
- Water bottle (to keep hydrated before, during and after)
Make sure you’re ready!
A sometimes forgotten and yet most important thing to remember when beginning your workout is to warm-up. They are critical as they’ll reduce your risk of injury and get your body ready for the demands of your session. Without warming up, the lactic acid will build in your muscles quicker which can lead to cramp and other injuries.