I have no idea how to use the machines at the gym

LisaUlrey

I know this is silly, but I have never used the weight machines at the gym. I really want to start using them but I don't even know where to start. They have trainers at my gym but not in the evening when I am able to go. Any suggestions? I am nervous to jump in on my own and hurt myself or embarass myself.

DragonSquatter

Start light and follow the directions on the machines. They usually have a little diagram that shows you how to use it. Try a light weight and then slowly add as you go.

ladynocturne

I usually try to go when it isn't too busy and pick a machine, look at the muscle groups on the pictures and read the directions for how to use it (they're usually posted in an easy to see/read location on the machine's structure). The most difficult part is actually going and doing it lol.

Start with 5 or 10 pounds get the motion right, then if you need more weight, add more. I'm sure people are more worried about how they look than how you look.

JustJennie1

The machines usually have a picture on them that explains how to use them (although I see people using the calf machine wrong all the time!) If all else fails maybe ask someone who's using the machine you want to use how to use it. Contrary to lots of posts that you see on the board people at the gym are usually very nice!

njspank

Hey Lulrey,

Do be too nervous. I've found that most machines have instructions that accompany a diagram of some sort that explains the correct form or technique when using the machines. Maybe you can ask another person in the gym? If all else fails, just try them out and take it slow. Whenever you "feel the burn", that probably is an indication that you're perfoming the exercise correctly. Hope this helps and good luck.

howardheilweil

Your instinct about not wanting to do anything because of possible injury is very smart! Your options are to buy a book (there are tons) or take a day off of work and schedule an appointment with a trainer to get you started on a basic routine at the gym that you can build on. Good luck!

ninerbuff

I'm sure you have one day off a week where someone there can give you an orientation on the machines. It takes about 30 minutes to an hour to go through.


A.C.E. Certified Personal and Group Fitness Trainer
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Been in fitness industry for 30 years and have studied kinesiology and nutrition

maillemaker

As was noted, many gym machines have a picture on them that shows you how to use them and what muscle groups they work.

If you don't want to do this or can't, note the machine manufacturer and model number and then go look up the owner's manual on the internet later on. You can even take a picture of it with your cell phone and use it for reference when you get home.

Roxanne_Hennessy

I know at my Planet Fitness there was a guy there that taught you how to use the machines every day.
He usually focused on certain groups dail ie Monday Arms, Tuesday Legs etc