The Gym Rookie’s Guide to Blending in and Getting Fit

Have you been too intimidated to visit the gym despite having made an enthusiastic New Year’s resolution declaration on Facebook?

Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us. It’s hard to get going at the gym with excuses like, “That machine looks too complicated to use”, “ “Everyone at the gym looks too fit”, or “My dog ate my gym pants”.

All you need to actually get started – and god forbid, enjoy gym time –  is a little confidence. The difference a little confidence makes is remarkable.

So here are five ways to boost your confidence at the gym and to stop blaming the poor dog.

You wouldn’t go to work in your pyjamas, so why go to the gym in a pair of pyjama-worthy shorts and hand-me-down t-shirt?

Dressing professionally for work puts you in the mood for some serious business. Likewise, dressing in proper gym gear would not only ensure that you’re safe and comfortable, it also gives you one less thing to worry about like over-exposure and deodorant stains.

When you look good, you feel good. Plus, looking the part means you won’t stick out like a sore thumb among the seasoned guys!

SOURCE: blibli.com

Nike’s AS Dri-Fit Contour SS is a great, bright option to lift your mood at the gym while keeping your body cool during exercise.

Don’t try to run before you can walk, literally. Whether it’s your first time at the gym or your first session after a long break, an unfamiliar machine is intimidating and might put you off.

Start with something basic that you know, like the treadmill or exercise bike. This helps you to feel more in control and you won’t run the risk of injuring yourself.

Feeling good about your exercise gives you confidence and motivation to continue developing the habit. Also, you won’t have to worry about stumbling in an exercise while that cutie at the weight rack is watching.

SOURCE: thefunniestpictures.com

Once you’ve acquainted yourself with the basics, you’ll feel more confident in trying out the more “complicated” machines. To tackle them, do some research on how they work and to see what body parts they work on. There are tons of step-by-step YouTube videos on how to properly use gym equipment

Alternatively, you could ask one of the fitness instructors to guide you. This way, you’ll get the right form, benefit from the exercise, and avoid pulling a muscle!

One of the most crucial ways to feeling confident at the gym is to have enough rest. Make sure you get enough sleep and rest so that you’ll feel pumped for your sweat session.

Going to the gym while feeling tired can make you feel self-conscious and hinder your performance. Hydration is also key. Staying properly hydrated regulates your body temperature, keeping you cool during the workout.

Having a gym buddy can definitely calm your nerves. You can motivate each other and make sure neither of you plays hooky.

However, if you’ve joined the gym solo (kudos to you), don’t panic! Take this opportunity to join a class, and you might just find like-minded gym buddies whom you can set future workout dates with.