Gym beginner help

aimjudson

Hey guys,
So I signed up to a gym in the new year and have had the yo-yo effect of going. As in I get motivated and go and then I stop completely.
My biggest dilemma is that I don't know where to begin.
I'm unfamiliar with much of the equipment and I'm not sure how to start a plan or what I should be doing that would benefit me. I understand I have to keep at it but I feel like it would be easier if I was more comfortable.
Do you think it's worth hiring a trainer to run me through how to use the equipment/make a plan?
Or do you have any tips/advice?
Thanks in advance!

rileysowner

A trainer might be a great place to start. What are your goals?

bbell1985

Hiring a trainer changed my life. I will never regret spending the money. I had her for a couple of months to learn the main lifts. Then I taught myself with some strength programs, and now I have a coach again. Literally, changed my life.

ccsernica

Have you talked to the staff at the gym? Very often there are trainers on staff who, while they probably can't work with you regularly without charging an extra fee, will be happy to set you up with a routine to get you going and show you how to use the equipment.

kayeroze

I feel the same way still and I've had my membership for about a year now. I would say up a general routine for the week by splitting cardio and strength. For me it's 3 days cardio + 20 minutes kettlebell strength and 2-3 days Bodypump class (circuit training with weights). I don't use a ton of the equipment but the gym is my space to work out. Try finding your cardio fix first because it's the easiest like elliptical, arc trainer, treadmill, class, etc. And then look into free weight and Body weight templates that are easier to take on at first over the machines.

LonsyBoy

100% agree with everyone on using someone to help introduce you to machines and dumbbells exercises, once you get the hang of everything you can search online for different workout plans, if you go to:
www.muscleandstrength.com
www.bodybuilding.com
They have every muscle exercise guide and how to properly execute each exercise with videos and photos + workout routines

DylanCHenderson

As a trainer who started off as "desk staff" in a gym I would recommend asking if they offer a free orientation. This is like a walk through of the machines. Machines are a great way to gain confidence in a gym setting if that is not something you are used to. Most of them have directions and targeted miscles. Breathe deep and dont be afraid to ask questions. No one knows what they are doing the first year they go into a gym (for the most part). When ALL else fails, hire a trainer.

Train smart,
Dylan.

aimjudson

I really appreciate the insight everyone. Thank you so much. @DylanCHenderson I was offered a free orientation but it was more or less to go over my BMI and see where my weaknesses and strengths were.
But I'll give them a call and see if I can get a trainer for an hour to run me through the equipment.