According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults need at least 150 minutes of exercise per week and two muscle-strengthening sessions. You don’t have to go to the gym to get your exercise; everything from walking to dancing to carrying groceries counts. But some people find it easier to stick to a routine if they physically make the trip to the gym. You might find this intimidating if you’re not used to the environment, but these fitness tips can help you learn to love the experience.
Start small
Forget the fitness influencers on social media. The point of going to the gym isn’t to do impossibly complicated routines or show off how much weight you can deadlift. The point is to build your personal physical fitness. Set small, easily accomplishable goals and celebrate your successes. As you grow stronger and fitter, your body will tell you when you’re ready to add difficulty.
Work out with a buddy
Having someone to talk to can turn fitness into fun while also helping you feel less self-conscious as a gym newbie. Choose someone you trust who won’t try to pressure you into doing more than you feel ready for. You and your workout buddy can hold each other accountable while also catching up on each other’s lives. Think of it as a play date for adults.
Consider it self-care
You know how important it is to take time out for self-care, but it can be tough to fit everything into your busy schedule. Thinking of your gym time as self-care accomplishes two things at once: building your physical and emotional health and giving you a chance to prioritize yourself. It’s a win-win!
Focus on the afterglow
Maybe you don’t like working up a sweat. But a good workout will trigger a cascade of endorphins, which are the body’s feel-good chemicals. And the sweat gives you a good excuse for a long shower. Push through the gym time itself with an eye toward the positive energy you can indulge in afterward.
Consider a personal trainer
Many people avoid the gym because they feel intimidated by all the different equipment. Just one or two sessions with a personal trainer can help you get familiar with the gym environment, learn the different settings that are right for you, and develop a plan for boosting your physical fitness. Choose someone with a reputation for caring and friendliness, as a “boot camp” style trainer will only make you feel more intimidated and overwhelmed.
Perhaps you don’t want to visit the gym at all to improve your workout routine. You can still use these fitness tips from anywhere (in your living room or at the park, perhaps) to get more movement into your everyday life.