When youre just starting out, the gym is an intimidating place.
Heres how to feel more at home when youre working out.
The transition wasnt easy, but what I can say is that its is mostly mental.
The following pointers will allow you to get into the right state of mind.
you could curl elsewhere.
If you use a weight, put it back.Dont make someone else expend their energy picking up your stuff.
Theres a great infographic of the dos and donts at the gymavailable here.
Etiquette is more for your peace of mind than anything else.
Its easy to walk around the gym thinking that everything youre doing is wrong.
When others glance your way, its easy to project your self-consciousness onto what they are thinking.
By studying and practicing the gym etiquette above, you might rest assured that youre not doing anything wrong.
If youre sedentary, starting with machines can help you make great progress.
Are you there for a cardio workout?
Focusing on upper body?
If you decide at home what your plan is based on your goals.
(For example theexercises to focus on for weight loss.)
But most people in the gym are friendly, and will gladly help you if you just ask.
have a go at reframe your negative thoughts by realizing this fact.
Not many beginners try it out, so kudos to them.
If someone actually does this, then theyre not even worth a second thought.
(And everyone else at the gym probably thinks theyre an asshole, too.)
One of the best ways to do this is by using mindfulness meditation.
Instead, you might occupy your brain by usingmindfulness meditation when you train.
According to Schwarzenegger.com:
Ill give you an exercise to practice.
Its only 2 minutes long but incredibly difficult.
Set a timer for 2 minutes.
Wherever youre at, I want you to close your eyes, and pick one thing to focus on.
It can be anything, but to give you some ideas, heres what I usually tell people.
If youre sitting down, take a stab at focus on the weight of your hips/butt on the chair/floor.
How does it feel?
Can you feel the weight of your body pressing down against the surface youre sitting on?
Another idea is to pay attention to your lower belly as you breath in and out.
Pay attention to the feeling.
Lastly, realize that its okay to be uncomfortable.
Youre in a new environmentandmaking new lifestyle changes, so dont be so hard on yourself.
Remember,you cant help your feelings, which are completely natural and nothing to be ashamed of.
Being comfortable at the gym is a skill.
Image bySoleilC,Chun Kit To,Katy Warner,Romanlily, andMarina.
