From Home to Gym: My Fitness Journey
Embracing Change
For years, I was a die-hard fan of at-home workouts. I discovered fitness videos on YouTube and was hooked. I’d roll out my yoga mat, pop on four to five Pilates videos, and get a brutal muscle-burning workout done in an hour – all for free! But life had other plans, and I found myself in a new living situation with no spare room to work out in. Then, I made the switch to apartment living, where I was conscious of the noise level of my at-home workouts.
The Gym: A Worthwhile Investment?
Let’s face it – unused gym memberships are a waste of money. They’re like throwing cash out the window. However, after 18 months of dedicated gym use, I’ve learned a thing or two about getting the most out of your membership.
Smart Signing Up
When I joined my local gym, I visited in person and scored a $9 discount on the monthly sign-up price. It may not seem like much, but it adds up to $108 per year – and I’m paying only $5 per week! Always try before you buy, and take advantage of free trials or discounts for referring friends.
Building Confidence
Going to the gym can be intimidating, especially if you’re new to working out. To build confidence, try going during quiet hours, like Saturday afternoons or Sunday mornings. Get familiar with the equipment, and don’t be afraid to ask the staff for help. They’re there to assist you!
Having a Plan
A workout plan is essential for me. It’s my safety blanket. With so many free gym apps and online workouts available, there’s no excuse not to have a plan. If you’re unsure where to start, pick an exercise and complete three sets of 12 reps before moving on to the next one.
Utilizing Resources
Don’t be shy about asking for help at the gym. The staff is there to assist you, and most gyms offer a free trainer session when you join. Take advantage of it! You can learn new moves and get tips on how to use equipment properly.
Taking it to the Next Level
Once you’ve been going to the gym for a while, challenge yourself to try new things. I wanted to do more weight-lifting, but the weights area intimidated me. So, I started small, doing exercises with dumbbells in the mat areas until I felt confident enough to move to the weights section. Now, I do a full routine in the weight section.
Backup Plans
One of the best things I’ve done recently is create a list of exercises for each body part on my phone. It’s perfect for those busy days when the equipment I want is taken. Having backup exercises that use the same muscles comes in handy, and I’m learning to use one machine for various body parts.
The Bottom Line
The best exercise is the one you can stick to. If you’ve ever wanted to join a gym, I hope these tips can help you make the most of your time there!
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