Every January, many who have “dropped the ball” on their health and fitness goals rush to the gym in the following days to jump start their resolutions. For more frequent gym-goers, this can come as a shock when their previously unoccupied gym is swarmed with newcomers. While the immediate reaction is to get frustrated, it is important to remain positive.
Going to a gym for the first time can be intimidating. Here are some tips to ensure your gym time remains a positive and healthy part of the day, whether you’re a regular or a first-timer.
1. Don’t wish for failure.
Everyone knows that gym populations start to dwindle back down to regulars in late January to early February. If you frequent the weight room, it’s easy to hope for that exact outcome. Don’t! Everyone has to start somewhere. Instead of hoping they give up like many who make resolutions, hope they succeed, become healthier and perhaps more gym-savvy.
2. If you see someone confused, help them!
Everyone has had that moment: you look at a machine and are confused about what muscle it works, let alone how to use it. If you see an unfamiliar face obviously having problems, kindly offer to demonstrate. Not only does this facilitate the kind of comradery one would want to find in a gym, but it also might free up that machine you have had your eye on a bit quicker.
3. Remember how far you’ve come.
No matter your level of physical fitness, age or athletic experience, going to a weight room or an exercise class for the first time is scary for most. But the important thing is, these newbies are chasing their goal. That’s a good thing! Try to remember the obstacles you overcame to get to your desired fitness level. Odds are the people you are wishing away are going through something similar. A friendly face and patient attitude may be just what they need to get over that newcomer’s anxiety.
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