An Introduction to the Gym

An Introduction to the Gym

Ahh, the gym. A wonderful place that allows you to pick and choose from a variety of fitness activities on a whim. If you are a new gym member, or are considering joining a gym, here is a quick overview of what you can expect. You may also like this Guide to Choosing the Right Gym for you. If you like variety among your practice, then the gym is the place for you. Different gyms will have different features, however, most will include the following sections:

• Cardio machines: These will help you improve your cardiovascular fitness through sustained, low-intensity aerobic exercise.

• Common cardio machines include: Elliptical, treadmills, stationary bikes, stair climbers, and rowing machine

• Boot camp are high-intensity routines focus on functional full-body training and calorie burning which is very effective for losing weigh

• Weight machines: These are great for helping beginners build muscle when starting at ground zero.

The gym can be a terrifying place, filled with its own social etiquette culture , not to mention the fear that everyone is staring at you, and scrutinizing every exercise you do is with the correct form. These ten tips should help you on your journey towards Healthy Living:

•  Make sure you utilize the orientation you get at the gym, all gyms should offer this when you join. It is basically an explanation and demonstration of the equipment and how to use it in the gym, but it also sets you a basic program to get you going.

•  If you are a beginner stick to machine weights rather than free weights until you feel comfortable in the gym and have better understanding of weights. You can't go too wrong with machine weights.

• If you can afford one, invest in one personal training session every 6 weeks, they will give you a specific program to do individual to you that you can work on for 6 weeks and then if you get stuck with the program you have the reassurance that you have a trainer to ask.

•  All gyms should have a personal trainer or someone who is supervising the gym working all the time to help members, they are paid to help you so don't feel you are putting them out by asking questions about equipment etc.

• NEVER feel that you shouldn't be in the weights area if you are working on a program or feel intimidated by anyone in the gym, you have every right to be there as much as they do.

• Don't start weights too heavy, if you haven't done weights before start light so you and your muscles get used to lifting weights, there will be less chance of injury and it will make you feel comfortable with the weights you are using.

• Don't let anyone around you influence what you are doing, there are too many people out there who want to give advice that they have only read in a magazine.

• Do classes that the gym offer, they are free and will make you feel more comfortable in the gym.

• If you don't feel sure of anything never be afraid to ask in classes or the gym, no question is stupid.