The new year means many people will be starting or heading back to the gym. It can be overwhelming for many due to different factors, including not knowing where to start.
Whether you are a newbie or a long-time gym goer, there are some important things to remember when you are starting off or starting back the gym.
Start off light
Whether you are a beginner or have been off for a few weeks, a few months or even a few years always start off light.
The last thing you want to do when starting is to push yourself too far and leave sore and unable to attend the gym for the rest of the week.
Work yourself gently back in and start off with lighter weights and lower intensity workouts.
Have a workout plan
Having a plan is a good place to start when going back to the gym.
A plan will let you make the most of your time in the gym and you will be going in knowing exactly what you are going to do.
Plans also help you balance your workouts out and not continuously just hitting for example your lower body. You can find plans and inspiration online or you can consult a personal trainer for tailored plans.
Get yourself a good playlist
A good playlist is essential to a good workout. Music is the fuel to your workout and is what will push you through it.
People listen to all types of music in the gym from rap to heavy metal to pop and much more. Listening to music, especially music you like, is a great workout motivation.
If your music isn’t quite doing it for your workout session you can find loads of premade gym playlists online.
Bring a gym buddy
If you are nervous to go alone, you can always find someone who is willing to join you. While some gym goers go alone, others often workout with one or more people.
If you know someone who already goes to the gym then great, but if not then you can find someone to go with who knows just as much as you do. You can learn the ropes together.
Finding someone to go with can be great, but if that isn’t possible, it’s okay to go alone. You will find you aren’t the only person starting or starting back and nervous to be going in alone.
Feature Image Credit: Pexels
Lifestyle Editor / Third year journalism student
You must log in to post a comment.