Do you ever walk into a gym, not knowing a soul, feeling kind of lost or maybe slightly embarrassed? Guess what, me too. I have belonged to 4 gyms in my life so far, and let me tell you, joining a new gym has made me a nervous wreck.
My Top Tips To Consider Before You Walk Into a Gym
Below, I am going to give some tips on how to prepare yourself for when you first walk into a gym, or your first time since quarantine, or for whenever you need a pick-me-up. Please unbuckle your seat belts because this is going to be a smooth ride.
1. Have a plan before you walk into a gym
Alllll the magazines and influencers on instagram will tell you this. It is one thing I hold dearest to my heart. I feel completely disorganized and out of sync with my brain when I walk into a gym and just wing it. I think it is good to have a plan because it helps engage your mind to your muscles.
Once in a blue moon, I will go in and not have a clue as to what I am going to do. It happens. Sometimes you just want to go in and get the blood moving doing the most random ish. I get that. On those days you are super serious, you should have a plan written down or memorized so you can get the best connection possible.
Recently, I have been working out with a small group of guys (in a new gym). I have been letting them take control because it’s a new gym with new equipment (prime example). Not being in control of my workouts has been hard. But it feels good to not be constantly planning what we are doing next. Letting someone else make the plans has been good for my mental health, and helps me build confidence for when I am on my own.
Now my physical health is suffering a bit because it isn’t used to the intensity. But my dad has told me time and again…if I want to get serious gains, train with men because they will push you to your furthest efforts. That’s like letting Jesus take the wheel for awhile.
2. Workout with someone
If you are brand new to the gym world and everything it has to offer, workout with someone. I HIGHLY recommend this until you get your feet wet enough you feel like you can wade the world alone.
Like I said above, when you are in a new space, find someone to help. Having my group of guys has made all the difference for me. I can now go to the gym by myself without any stress.
There are so many different styles, programs, supplements and just plain temptation out there. Find someone you trust and go from there. Adapt their style and see if it is something you like. If not, find someone else or do some research.
What has really helped me is adding a few big influencers onto my instagram and reading up on them. Finding out who they stand with (products) and what they stand behind (beliefs, other people).
From there, they lead to more influencers and more styles. It’s really an overwhelming process, but with trial and error I have found what works best for me. I started out following some of @AubrieB and @Gabsfit15’s workouts and managed to adapt into something I enjoy doing too.
These 2 ladies have really helped me grow in confidence and helped me improve my fitness journey. Since quarantine has ended, I have looked to them again for inspiration on my workouts and just plain advice on how to get back into the game.
That being said, if you are good at winging it and flying by the seat of your pants, then do yo thang girl. But I promise you, having someone there to hold your hand while you walk into a gym for the first time, or get back out there is 100% ok.
3. Confidence but not cockiness
Okay, so you are terrified to make your first debut into the gym. Somehow you think people give a crap what you look like or how you’re dressed…..honey they don’t, or at least most people won’t care. Something that I has helped me with my first time is talking myself up in the car.
Listening to a good song and belting out the song lyrics has helped me with my nervousness before. Actually, I typically listen to a good pump up song to get myself hyped up to even get the workout started. Everyone struggles with getting started from time to time.
Once you feel satisfied with a good hype song, you take your hot self and walk into that gym like you own the place. Hold your shoulders back, keep a neutral (but not passive) look on your face, and stride like this ain’t your first time.
Try not to come off as a show boat, but in your head, definitely tell yourself that you’re going to make this gym your b****. All in all, once you get into a groove that makes you most comfortable, you will have no problem struttin’ your stuff into a gym.
4. Look and feel hot AF
Now, getting down to the nitty gritty…..Besides getting super amped by good tunes, I like to dress in some super cute leggings. The leggings are by far my favorite part of working out. I don’t know why, but I always feel ten times as confident and feel twice as hot with some good body forming leggings.
Of course, you accessorize with a cute bra and shirt (shirt is optional if you feel confident about your bod ;)), but the leggings (for me) are where it’s at. However, I am currently in search of a man. So sometimes I put a dab of perfume on my neck or back to have that good good smell.
Totally and completely optional on the perfume, since this isn’t a bar. I use Dolce and Gabbana ‘light blue’ if you want a fresh scent. And even more optional is wearing makeup. I can only think of a handful of times where I have put makeup on to go to the gym. Personally, I sweat way too damn much to even bother with it. But giiiirl if it suits you, GO FOR IT!!
5. Tunes (tune out the b****es)
My pal Erin talked about these Bose wireless noise-canceling headphones that she likes to wear. She also has a post you can visit to find out what you need to start working out here. She goes in-depth a bit about these headphones and other items helpful for workouts!!
I wear a Sound buds wireless blue tooth earbud brand. I am having a hard time finding the exact pair, but these are most similar! But I may convert to headphones soon! For now though, these earbuds are my fav. They stay in your ears for all activities (not water included).
I shouldn’t say you NEED music to workout, but it sure as heck helps. I need music for more than one reason….including staying focused to allow for as much intensity as possible. Another reason is to tune out the b****es.
I don’t mean this in a harsh way. I’m happy to talk to people, but sometimes you just need to get through a workout uninterrupted. Having a good pair of headphones/earbuds really helps stay focused. Plus it gives others the subtle hint that you really don’t want to be talked to.
6. What is your “Why”?
Last but not least, what is your why? What is willing you to want to workout and better yourself? Is it excessive stress at home or work? Or is it that you want to lose weight or gain muscle? Do you simply just want to get out the house and away from your nagging bf/gf/husband/wife?
Whatever the case may be, make sure you have a clear goal in mind to get started. even if it is just to go and get the blood moving. Something is better than nothing.
My “why” is to become thinner in the waist and hips and attain muscle. I have always wanted (since I finished college) to lose the weight in my hips and attain the figure I had in the beginning of college. Now, that is easier said than done, but a girl has to have a goal.
Since quarantine has ended, I have noticed I have gained weight (no shocker there). But I have been using a routine at the gym, as well as utilizing intuitive eating, and am already noticing changes….its only been a couple weeks.
Consistency over time is how I am going to try and achieve it. Don’t ever forget your “why” or you may become undetermined and give up. Try not to forget what you are aiming for, and don’t be afraid to aim high!!
What are some tips that have helped you achieve your goals inside and outside the gym?? Comment below!!
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