What to Expect on Your First Day at the Gym

Making your way to your first day at the gym can be an exciting, yet nerve wracking experience if you’re not quite sure what to expect. Try not to worry, as this is just the start to a new and healthier version of you. You’ll have plenty of time to learn the dos and don’ts at the gym. If you’re still a little unsure or on the fence about it, take it from me. I’ve been there many a time, and I can tell you a thing or two about your first day at the gym.

It can be a fun and rewarding experience if you simply commit to it. Here’s a little bit of what you can expect on your first day at the gym.

You May Feel Out of Your Element

When you first arrive, it’s important to survey the gym and learn the layout. You’ll find yourself wondering when first looking for specific weights, machines, or equipment that will cater toward your workout. That’s okay. Don’t let the eyes of others deter you from getting after you goal. If it’s your first time exercising or lifting weights, don’t feel embarrassed to ask for help. You’ll come to know that many people are more than willing to show you the ropes if you simply ask. That doesn’t mean it’s always going to be a pleasant experience, but you’ll have a better idea of what to do by asking the right person.

You Might Not Know Who to Talk to

Now, when choosing someone to give you a little bit of advice, it never hurts to ask the gym staff. Generally speaking, gym staff have experience working with weights and exercising. If you can catch a gym staff member on the job, feel free to ask them. If you don’t see any in sight, it wouldn’t hurt to ask a personal trainer. Many gyms contract out to personal trainers who spend hours in the gym training clients. If a trainer is not with a client, and if your question isn’t too long winded, it doesn’t hurt to ask. If neither a staff member or personal trainer is available, you can always ask another gym member who looks like they know what they’re doing.

Your Workouts May Take You A Little Longer

When first starting out, your workouts may lean a little toward the longer side. Don’t worry, it’s just a matter of you acclimating to your new environment. If you can stay consistent with your workout routine, you’ll find that you can spend less and less time in the gym because you know exactly what you’re doing, and where you’re going to do it. First timers still need time to figure out these details, so don’t feel self conscious if your first few workouts tend to be on the longer side.

These are just a few things to take note of when first starting to workout in a new gym. I often like to compare it to the first day of school. You’re entering a new community, one in which you may not know much about and you may not know many people there. That said, some of the best gyms have the most supportive communities where people not only aim to achieve their own goals, but they aim to uplift others as well. If you’re finding it hard to find these kind of people in your gym, feel free to turn toward DR1224 for any of your needs. That’s what we’re here for.