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Here’s what to expectincluding benefits, potential side effects, and what to do in social situations.
Channing Smith
For me, it’s all about moving my body.
Overall, it’s clear that the benefits can help me live a happier, healthier life.
Isnt that true with most things in life?
Instead reframe your mindset and remind yourself why you are at the gym to begin with.
Youre not there to impress anyone!
saysLaura Quinn, nutritionist and head pilates trainer atAlo.
Youre there to work on yourself.
Keep your goal in mind.
We feel people care about us more than they do.
Focus on yourself and block out everyone else.
Remember that everyone starts somewhere, he says.
Start with less crowded times and focus on your own progress.
Can you really learn how to start going to the gym with no experience?
You don’t need to be a pro to start going to the gym.
In fact, most experienced gym members had to start somewhere.
The key is to have a plan before walking into a gym, says Rocco.
I recommend taking a few classes to get a feel for what you enjoy and to gain confidence.
Cardio doesnt take a lot of knowledge or experience and can be a less intimidating place to start.
Most offer complimentary training sessions or a special discounted rate for first-time clients, she adds.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help and enjoy the process of improving your health and well-being.
you’re free to also do research online and find guidance from fitness apps.
It can also help to go to the gym with a friend who frequently goes.
Its great to push yourself outside your comfort zone.
I promise, once you make the gym a habit, it will feel so natural to go.
Whats the best way to start a gym routine?
Once you’ve made your plan, it’s all about taking that first step.
Don’t be afraid to use the resources available to you.
Most gyms offer one complimentary training session, says Rocco.
you might also access online apps and videos to help you with a plan.
Setting intentions is important.
Think about what you want to achieve and why, says Baker.
Do you want to tone and sculpt your muscles?
Or do you simply want to have fun while working out?
Having clear goals will definitely help you stay on track and remain consistent.
You don’t have to hit the ground running.
Instead, Baker says, start slow and steady with simple exercises that target different muscle groups.
Don’t feel rushed or pressured to lift heavy weights or perform advanced exercises right away, she says.
For example, start with lighter weights and gradually increase the intensity as your strength and confidence grow.
Most important, listen to your body.
Pay attention to your body and how it responds to exercise, Baker says.
If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to stop and seek advice.
Whats the best way to keep your gym routine consistent?
Consistency is key if you want to see results.
I recommend sticking with the same weight training routine for at least 12 weeks at a time.
This routine is called progressive overload, which taps into the science behind building muscle.
Rocco recommends four strength training workouts per week to get consistent.
Consistency is often about creating a habit, says Baker.
Ezekh echoes this advice: Make it a habit.
Consistency is best achieved by setting realistic goals, creating a schedule, and finding activities you enjoy.
Quinn recommends looking ahead to double-check workouts fit your schedule.
I like to plan out my workouts for the week, she says.
Once you pass the two-week mark, it becomes addicting, both mentally and physically.
Youll start to crave it.
No one has ever regretted a workout even when they didnt feel like doing it beforehand.
You have my word on that one.
I did it a decade ago and never looked back.
Lets make 2025 the year you do too.
What are recommended gym workouts for beginners?
Totally depends on what your goals are, says Quinn.
For losing weight, youll want to do the stairs, treadmill, or cardio.
For toning, youll train with weights or do Pilates.
If you want to increase your flexibility, try yoga.
Overall, Rocco recommends resistance training for both beginners and advanced gym members.
It’s something everyone should be doing regardless of age, weight, and skill level, she says.
It also requires zero experience to get started.
Try finding a resistance training class at your gym to get a feel for how weight lifting feels.
And again, utilize those trainers at your gym.
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