The First steps into the Weight Room
Gyms are reopening and many of us haven’t set foot in the weight room in months, or maybe you have never stepped foot in the weight room but are wanting to!
Either way it can be a tad intimidating, especially if the gym is filled with a bunch of bro lifters, who all look like muscle heads.
Here are some tips to help you feel more confident in the weight room:
1.Go with a friend
Having someone there so you don’t face this new setting alone is a nice reassurance. If they are experienced in the weight room then they can show you the ropes, or if not then you can tackle it together, both knowing you're not alone!
2.Have a plan
Have your workout planned out. Know what exercises you are doing, and what machines you will be using. This will help you feel less overwhelmed in the new environment.
3.Increase your knowledge
If you are unsure how certain weight lifting exercises are performed, or are unsure how to use machines, youtube is filled with thousands of videos of people showing you proper form, technique tips, and how to use machines. Increasing your knowledge before stepping foot in the weight room can be a major confidence booster.
I personally watched Jeff Nippard's Technique Tuesday youtube series (linked below)and found that very beneficial to helping me become more comfortable in the weight room.
4.Go at less busy times
There are times when the gym is packed. Every gym is different but usually the after work crowd during the week is the busiest. Try to avoid this time, as a less crowded weight room will help you feel less overwhelmed and more comfortable. Plus, not having to wait for machines is an added bonus!!
5.Book a personal trainer session
Many gyms offer one free personal trainer session when you first sign up for a membership, while others offer them for a small fee. Utilize this. Having someone walk you through your first weight training session can give you a piece of mind and help you get the lay of the land before you tackle it yourself.
6.Remember your why
Why do you workout? Why do you want to use the weight room? For me, I want to be healthy and strong, and working out in the weight room will help me accomplish those goals. I deserve to be there just as much as anyone else.
Although stepping into the weight room the first time can be scary, it will never get less intimidating unless you take the first step of actually going.
You deserve to be in that weight room just as much as anyone else. You may feel like others are watching you, but they truly aren’t. Everyone is focused on their own thing, and won’t notice if your form is slightly off, or if you are confused by how to use a machine. Also, it's okay to make mistakes, to mess up, that's how we learn - it's all a part of the process.
I was once in the same place. Terrified to use the weight room, mainly because I didn't want to feel like a fool for not knowing what to do. But, the above tips helped me feel more comfortable. I am so glad I took that first step into the weight room because I have completely fallen in love with weight lifting since.
Don't let fear hold you back. Use these tips and get out there to crush the weight room!!
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