Beginning at the Gym: A Step by Step Guide
Training with a Personal Trainer or a friend is a great starting point. Learning from someone who understands the gym will benefit your progression and confidence.
When resistance training for the first time, aim to start on the fixed resistance machines. This will be a great introduction to training different muscle groups in a safe and efficient way.
DON’T go to the gym to try and burn off all the calories you eat. This is controlled through the food you eat. Talking with an experienced PT or nutritionist will help with this. Try to remember that the key is calories in/calories out for body composition.
DO what you can and don’t set unrealistic expectations. When first starting at the gym it is important to become familiar with the equipment and surroundings. Slowly aim to learn more and improve, it’s a marathon not a sprint.
Confidence is a massive part of the gym. Trying new equipment or exercises for the first time can be daunting. If you are unsure, ask a PT or if that feels scary to begin with, try watching a few YouTube demonstrations on how to do an exercise so you feel more confident next time you’re at the gym.
Have fun. If you’re not enjoying what you’re doing at the gym you don’t need to do it. Only do what you enjoy! There will be some days you really can’t be bothered to go to the gym and that’s completely normal. Try to find what you’re interested in and have an idea what you would enjoy doing at the gym.
Use the gym to get stronger, fitter, and more confident. Remember you can always get your ‘cardio’ doing any sports or walking regularly outside of the gym.