This month (in October) I choose to write about asking you to find a gym and workout that you like even though this would have been some persons New Year resolution (in January).
Asking people to resolve to get back into the gym at this time of the year might leave them wondering; “What do you mean Find a Gym and Workout you’d like? but what I’m actually trying to say is that; this is the point during the year where I re-visit my Fitness and see how well I’ve done considering that WINTER is fast approaching and we’ll all soon be wearing sweaters and coats which will conceal whatever effort we’ve made at working out in the year and that might be a de-motivation for some.
I don’t know about you but I get motivated whenever I walk into the gym and then panic that it’s like I don’t know what I’m doing just as I get started.
Here is how you can master gym sessions. I want to share some of my workout wisdom with you that can help you feel more confident as you get into the best shape of your life.
First and Foremost, you have to find a gym you like…
Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you have gone through the fine prints and that it is the right fit for you. Here are FIVE things you must consider before making your choice:
- The Equipment
There should be separate studios for classes like yoga, spinning, and Pilates, this might mean having to pay a higher premium but this is something you need to consider if some weights and a treadmill are all you really need. - The Location
It is more unlikely than less for you to find your way to the gym often if the distance to the gym is 30 minutes or more from your home or office. If you’re the type that travels frequently or hope to shuffle between class schedules, you should consider getting a premium membership with a large chain. - The Hours
If your hours are not very flexible and you need to be up early or late because of your job or your kids or both, you should consider a gym with extended hours of operations daily. - The Amenities
If you want fluffy towels, Keypad lockers, Spa-like toiletries, a juice bar or other complimentary services, you’ll need to find a more upscale gym that provides these additional amenities/ services. - Find a Gym Partner
While some may prefer to workout solo as they tend to be more focused and on track that way; some others enjoy working out with others or a partner but you have to make sure you’re a good fit for each other.
Below are some of the advantages of working out with a partner or in a group.
- Encourages friendly competition
- It tends to be more fun and exciting
- You’ll have access to fresh Ideas
- You’ll make new friends and buddies
- You’ll be confined to always follow structures
- You’ll be exposed to regular routine exercises
- It’ll help you stay motivated.
The moment you’re there, work out on your own schedule
Now that you’ve made it to the gym, it’s time to eliminate all the guess work. These workout plans from Perkins will help you with that. Always gauge your intensity during cardio on a scale of 1 to 10 at once at level 5, learn to pick up the pace to a light run. By 6, you should be struggling to talk, by 8 you’ll be breathing deeply and by 10 you’re should be sprinting.
Do you sometimes find the machines confusing?
Most gyms have directions on their machines and also whenever you sign-in, would they give you a free class introduction. As for me, what I did was take notes during those classes so I can refer to them later. Also don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t remember some of the instructions. The trick is to act confident when asking and no one will think you’re struggling with it.
Are all the Machines Busy?
I’m sure there will be times when the gym will be very busy and it would seem there isn’t enough room for some people. Instead of heading for the exit door, I would advise you find a corner, grab a set of dumbbell and medicine ball and do each move for a one minute while resting for 30 seconds in between. Complete the circuit three times and don’t rush through it. Try to do as many good reps as gently you; moving too quickly can lead to poor form and may result in injury.
You can try out routines like;
- Deadlift with row
- Push-up with superwoman
- Lunge into deadlift
- Sit-up with Russian Twist
Check out these top spots in any fitness class
Nervous newbies can find solace in the fact that there’s always a perfect place in a gym where new comers can stay while trying out the class for the first time.
Zumba: Stand at least two rows backwards just directly behind the instructor. That way you can both see each other and you can get help once you get lost.
Yoga: You’ll eventually have to turn to every corner of the room during class, so it’s best you surround yourself with people you can follow.
Spinning: Cycling can be very tough at first, so it’s always better if you’re behind every other member of the class, let’s say by the door where you won’t feel judged for slowing down for exiting early.
These tips are also applicable for classes in kickboxing, dance or anything that involves fumbling through choreographed moves.
A gentle reminder:
Don’t forget to drink plenty of water and receive lots of sunlight. You’re basically a houseplant with complicated emotions!
Enjoy the gym!!