English
Spanish
Starting a new workout routine can be difficult enough, what with the muscle soreness, the planning, the discipline, and even the dietary habits that go along with it. But even just getting yourself in the gym itself can be intimidating, especially when you feel like you’re surrounded by tons of people who seem like professional bodybuilders and fitness models.
Fortunately, we’ve got five tips to help you get your butt to the gym so you can get to work without worrying about feeling like a beginner (even if you are one, which is more than okay with us!).
5 Ways to Make Yourself Comfortable and Reach Your Goals
1. Plan your outfit.
Whether you have the body you want or are working toward it, it’s important to feel comfortable in your own clothes. So, invest in some nice workout clothes that you can feel confident in but also move in well. Planning your outfit the night before saves time, too.
2. Set realistic goals…
Don’t expect yourself to shed 7 pounds in seven days, trim 10 inches off your waist in two weeks, or shave 5 minutes off your mile time in one month (or whatever else your goals are). Understanding (and setting) realistic goals will help you stay motivated and avoid the temptation of doing too much too soon.
You May Also Like: Exclusive Sneak Peek Into Our 5k Training Plan: Try These Interval and Hill Workouts!
3. …and share them with someone you trust.
Letting your spouse, partner, loved ones, and friends know about your newfound fitness goals can keep you accountable, especially on the days when willpower seems to slack off a bit (trust us: we all have those days). Plus, sharing your goals allows you to celebrate your milestones and small successes with people who love you, which makes the commitment to your goals even more worth it!
4. Hire a trainer.
Even just a few sessions with a personal trainer can help you become more comfortable with the gym’s equipment, the gym layout, and even the types of movements and exercises you should be doing for your goals. A trainer is a valuable resource that can also ensure you’re performing movements correctly and give you tips on recovery and nutrition, too.
5. Remember: Everyone’s really just focusing on their own workout.
In the beginning, it may feel like you have a sign on your back that says, “Newbie,” but the thing is: nobody really cares…and we mean that in a good way!
The gym is a wonderful and social place, filled with like-minded people who are all trying to better themselves. Allow yourself to assume that everyone around you isn’t judging you; they’re most likely too worried about their own workout, anyway.
Instead, try to see the gym community as a new group of people who can support and inspire you. Who knows, you may even end up meeting a new gym buddy along the way!
