So you are determined to hit the gym in shape and hitting the gym but have no idea how to go about it? We’ve chalked down a few helpful tips for beginners to not make any rookie mistakes on their first-time gym visits. Here’s a guide for all those amateur health buffs.
1. Get familiar
Be it the equipment in your gym, the trainer or other people around make sure you take a tour of the space and get to know it well. Ask around to know how the equipment works and what you need to know before setting your workout routine.
2. Take note of the interiors
A place with fancy interiors will surely get your attention but a gym needs more than that. Look out for useful equipment.
3. Get to know your trainer
It’s always better to have a trainer guide you through the workout process. So make sure you appoint one at least for a weekly consultation. Get to know your trainer and make sure you agree with his style of working.
4. Pay attention to hygiene
Hygiene is important so make sure you go the extra mile to maintain it. Always carry a towel to wipe off the sweat, get a personal water bottle, shower post workout and make sure you wear fresh clothes too.
5. Warm up
A good warm-up session is important before you start out full-fledged exercises. Warm up help prevent injuries and prepare the body for rigorous training.
6. Drink enough water
Working out will lead to sweating which may cause dehydration. Hence it’s important for you to keep sipping on water to stay hydrated.
7. Put on comfy clothes
Your gym wear has to be a balance of comfort and style so don’t try to be a fashionista in there. Pick clothes that will let you move your body freely. Avoid wearing tight or transparent clothes that could make you the butt of all jokes.
8. Find yourself some motivation
Gym buddies could help you stay motivated work harder towards achieving your fitness goal so it’s a good idea to make friends in the gym or join one with your friends, girl friend or acquaintance.
9. Get your vitals checked
Before you hit the gym and start your journey into getting healthy make sure you get your BMI, pulse rate, blood pressure and heart rate checked so that you have a smooth exercise regime.
10. Get off the phone
When in the gym make sure you don’t use your phone or simply keep your phone aside. Your phone can be a big distraction which is also bad gym etiquette.
11. Ask for help when you need it
Don’t hesitate to ask for help from friends or fellow-gym goers. There may be a machine or equipment you don’t know how to use so there is no harm in asking your trainer or someone else for help.
12. Keep the equipment back in place
Since a gym is a public space it is important that you follow some etiquette rules. Put back the equipment in its place after use so that others can use it too.
13. Don’t eat too much
Filling up your stomach is a terrible idea because working out with a full stomach will make you lethargic and you will end up with stomach cramps.
14. Don’t copy someone else’s workout
Every body is different and needs a different workout regime so don’t copy a friend’s workout regime simply because you like the way they look. Instead think of yourself and your body’s needs.