New to the Gym? 4 Things to Not Worry About

We are still in that phase of the New Year where people are starting to get into a fitness routine or maybe have just started up. First of all if you started in January and are still staying strong and consistent, congratulations! Getting into a gym routine is not easy, and that first month is definitely the most difficult. This is the month where you are going to be sore and tired, and it is also the most trying to carve out time for your workouts. Once you have been going consistently for a month is when things start to get easier, and I really hope you are starting to enjoy it.

People bring up concerns all of the time about how intimidating it can be to walk into the gym for the first while. While this is typically at the top of the list for most, I am going to let you know why you shouldn’t be concerned.

1. What others think: People at the gym are worried about their own workouts. They are there to put in the work and better themselves just like you! In fact it is quite inspiring for the regulars to see a new face consistently. You are showing up and that is what matters most.  If anything they are hoping you stick to it!
2. Making mistakes: Everyone makes mistakes, and even avid gym goers still need to play around with new exercises to get the form down. There are a ton of great resources out there such as (www.youtube.com) if you need a visual queue with a new exercise. Also you can always ask someone at the gym- it is a compliment to that person when you ask for help.  People want to see you succeed with your fitness goals so don’t be afraid to ask!
3. Not being in shape: It is wild to me that we have people inquire about personal training then say“I need to get into a bit better shape before I come see you.” Excuse me? That is our job! We are here to help you gain confidence and get you moving in the right direction. It’s the same with a public gym. Reiterating what I said in point 1 that it is extremely inspirational to see an “out of shape person” working hard, making a positive change and bettering themselves.  You are in the toughest phase of a fitness routine and that is creating a habit- you are gaining the respect of everyone around you.
4. Not knowing what to do:  As I mentioned in a previous blog (https://zone105.ca/build-muscle-with-these-5-exercises/) if you are unsure of what to do in the gym, you can follow the simple push, press, pull, squat, core program. You will be working every major muscle group in your body if you follow this and it is simple and effective.  Even people who have been going to the gym for years over complicate their programming. If you pick a program and stick to it for 8-12 weeks, you will see improvements whether you are lifting heavier weights, your body composition changes, or you have more energy. The key to any fitness program is consistency.

Whether you are walking into a big box gym or a local studio, we are trying to create a welcoming, inclusive and supportive atmosphere. If you are going to a big box gym, they will have a variety of different machines to cater to your fitness level and you will be able to progress at your own pace. If you are going to a group class or a personal trainer, a professional is there to help you modify exercises to what you’re comfortable with. Don’t be afraid to ask the trainer questions- that is what we are here for.  People in this community want to see you succeed!

Regardless of where you choose to reach your fitness goals, you will be surrounded by likeminded individuals there to do the same thing! The fitness community is some of the strongest and most supportive that I have ever come across. I can promise that if you stick to it you are not only going to feel so much better, gain confidence, but you are also going to meet some pretty amazing people along the way.

By Brett Kirkland