First Time Gym Goer

It is assumed that you've decided to join the gym. For people who have not been to the gym before, they may feel intimidated at the thought of joining one.
It is a common issue that the first time gym goer doesn't know what to do at the gym. They ended up choose to walk on the treadmill for hours because they are afraid to use the other equipments.

Then, what should we do as a first time gym goer apart from running on that treadmills for hours? These are some tips you may want to try if you are a first time gym goer:

a. Most of the gyms offer new member orientation, either in the form of the so called “free personal training” session or more formal type of walk through. The staffs will show you where the locker is and what gym etiquette is. Usually you will be guided by a personal trainer during your free session. The personal trainer will ask about your goal, your previous trainings, take measurement of height and weight and also body fat percentage.

During this free sessions, it is suggested to ask the personal trainer everything you want to know about the gym. How to use the equipments, how to train properly, the correct form to lift weight, or about nutrition. It's not to make fool of yourself or anything, but to avoid serious injury in the long run.

b. Once the free sessions are over, the personal trainer usually will ask if you want to continue to train with him/her. Most of the personal training sessions are costly but it is suggested to join few sessions to get more familiar with the equipment around the gym. But if you are confident enough to train on your own, it's your choice.

c. At the end of the first visit, do not expect you have got a good workout. While that day may seem like a waste of time, knowing the gym more will make your next workout better. When you walk out of there, at least you have learned something new and you will be more comfortable next time.

d. If you sign up the gym membership with your friend, go with him. Get someone who share the similar fitness goal with you. You will find it easier to walk into the gym with a supporting buddy.

e. Do not forget to pack your soap or body shampoo if you plan to take shower there after the exercise. Some gyms provide basic toiletries free of charge. Commonly forgotten items are clean clothes or towel. You can borrow shampoo from others, but I doubt they will want to lend you their underwear.

f. Do your research over the internet or books about the training methods and moves. You can get a lot of useful information over the internet about gym training as well as from the books.


g. Always ask a question if you are not sure about how to use the particular equipment. Go look for a guy with "Personal Trainer" thing on their clothes. However, do not interrupt others when they are in the middle of lifting heavy weights.

All the above tips are practical and I certainly hope that you will not be scared. Gym is often less awful than you thought.