The first day at the gym is always intimidating. New place, new people, new equipment- everything might seem a lot at first. However, stepping into a gym and deciding to work on your health goals is half a battle won. Focusing on your workout and keeping yourself busy helps acclimatize to the new environment.
Everybody has a first day at the gym. It is not uncommon to feel the jitters. However, you shouldn’t let unfamiliarity or low confidence hold you back. Everyone has a health goal and wants to be a better version of themselves- just like you. Some might be ahead in the journey, others might be starting with you. Your journey and your goals should be personal to you.
If you have decided to start a gym routine, there are a few tips that might help you get settled. If you have never stepped into a gym before, and wondering where to start, reading this guide might help. There are always floor trainers to assist you with the workout.
However, these general tips are specifically for beginners to get ready for their fitness journey and enjoy the process.
Setting a health goal is the first step before you start with the gym. Whether you want to bulk and gain muscles or lose that extra weight and get in shape, setting a realistic goal helps in the long term. Write down your goals. Be as specific as you can. Convey it to the trainers and begin your workout under supervision.
If you are a beginner with no gym experience, it is best advised to follow basic gym and workout tips given by your trainer. Remember all the Do’s and Don’ts on the first day itself. Gym guidelines are meant to keep you safe and get the most out of your workouts.
You must wear proper gym attire for a workout. Loose-fitted clothes and sports shoes are essential to train comfortably. Tight pants or shirts restrict your movements. Wearing inappropriate footwear may also cause serious injuries. Your attire need not be expensive, but appropriate for a gym setting.
Take a tour of the gym and talk to the trainer about stuff you do not understand. Understand the role of all equipment and what muscle group they target. Do not shy away from asking all questions related to your workout routine. Even great athletes need help while training. As a beginner, people will be glad to help you around.
Always remember to warm up before you start lifting weights or using any machines. A light warm-up or a jog on the treadmill should get you going. Stretch out those muscles from head to toe. It prepares your circulatory and respiratory system for a workout and avoids sprains or injuries.
Begin with lighter weights and gradually increase the intensity. Do not rush or overdo it on the first day. Your trainer will assign you proper weights depending on your physique and health. A good 30-minute workout is enough for the first few days. Let your body acclimatize to the new routine. Focus on the right form rather than putting on a lot of weight. A perfect form will target the right muscles and be more effective.
Do not overly train a single muscle. Alternate between various muscle groups and exercise light. Doing the same workout daily can be monotonous. It will also strain that part of your body and discourage you from continuing. Consult your trainer and try different exercises and equipment to form a habit. Always listen to your body and not push through excessive discomfort or pain.
- Eat Light Before & After The Gym
Do not overeat before entering the gym. Ensure there is a gap of at least 30 minutes before and after the workout. You won’t be able to put in a lot of intensity when working out after a heavy meal. Eat some proteins to energize your body.
Carry a big water bottle in your bag every day. Keep yourself hydrated throughout the entire session. You won’t have to deal with cramps or body aches if your body is well-hydrated. Carry a small towel along with you.
This is the most important piece of advice for a beginner. Do not compare yourself to other people in the gym. Focus on your training and take your time. Do not hesitate to ask for help when you need it. It is natural to have a lot of questions in the beginning. Consult your instructor and follow their advice to make the most out of your gym experience.
Entering a gym for the first time is daunting. But this shouldn’t take away the joy out of the process. Start light, train your core muscles, and ask for a trainer’s help wherever you feel confused. With time, you will understand your body’s requirements and train accordingly. Most importantly, trust the process. Read these 10 tips for your first day at the gym and go with the flow.
