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If you have never worked out at the gym before, it can be daunting to walk into the facility for the first time and start working out when you don’t know anyone there and you aren't sure to use the equipment or what the etiquette is.
However, you should not let this prevent you from joining the gym and doing what you can to improve your health, and anyway, you’ll find some top tips below that should make the whole process as simple as can be…
Get an induction
Ity id always a good idea to ask for an induction to the gym. These can be done online or in-person depending on which gym you go to, and they will basically show you where everything is and how it works so that when the time comes for you to go for your first proper session it won’t feel so confusing.
Wear something comfy
When you’re first starting out at the gym and you don't know anything about kettlebell swings or what a testosterone booster is, then there is no need to spend lots of money on fancy clothing because you simply don’t know if you will enjoy the gym enough to make it worthwhile.
It is, then, a good idea to wear something that you feel comfortable in and can move around in easily, Sneakers are a must and a comfy t-shirt and pair of sweatpants is absolutely fine too. You won’t stand out at all and no one really cares what you wear anyway.
Bring a towel
You will absolutely need to bring a small towel along with you to the gym. As you can imagine, you can get quite sweaty when exercising, and having a towel to hand means you can wipe down equipment after using it because no one wants to work out in another person’s sweat after all.
This is the biggest etiquette rule in most gyms, so really make an effort to remember.
Get there early
If you are planning to take classes at the gym, then it is a really good idea to get there around 15 minutes before starting time because they can get very popular and you don’t want to miss out.
Some classes will require you to book a space well in advance, so do ask about that when you join, or again, you could end up missing out.
Clear up after yourself
After using weights or whatever other equipment you use, don’t just abandon it on the gym floor where people may not be able to find it, or where it could represent a trip hazard, and always put it back where you found it.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
If you don’t know how to work the rowing machine or which weights you should be using, ask a member of staff as that is what they are there for. If they aren’t around you will probably find that your fellow gym users will be only too happy to help you out.
I hope you enjoy your first day at the gym. You got this!
