Joined a gym...now what?

beth0277

So I've been running for a while now and occasionally I do a Body Pump dvd with weights. There have been some bear sightings lately and one attack near where I live so I haven't been running as much because it makes me nervous. At any rate, I joined a gym today. What workouts are good for someone who hasn't stepped foot in a gym for a few years. I'm in decent shape from running but do it more for enjoyment than anything else. I have no idea what schedule to follow.

beth0277

Oh, and I can't stand running on a treadmill so that is out unfortunately.

sjaplo

Rowing machines are good - also pick up a copy of NROL4W and start lifting!

What is it in particular you don't like about treadmill running?

beth0277

For treadmill running, I'm not particularly fast but outside can pace myself however I want and on a treadmill I either feel like I am pushing myself too fast or doing a weird fast walk/jog thing. I just can't find my pace well on a treadmill.

AsaThorsWoman

Just go every day and try everything.


My basic routine is alternating between arms & legs, but doing cardio and abs every time.

:flowerforyou:

dbmata

I wouldn't let a simple little black bear scare me off from going for a run.

They respond really well to bear spray.


At the gym though? Have some fun. Try some weightlifting, try some machines, try the bikes, if there is a pool, swim. Find what calls to you, and do it. It also helps if you get a trainer session or two and have them show you everything you'd like to try to use.

scottkjar

Today's tip on how to turbo-charge your workout: Get chased by a bear!

caramelgyrlk

Meet with a trainer so you and they can tailor something to your needs and likes.

JenAndSome

Meet with a trainer so you and they can tailor something to your needs and likes.

^This. Most gyms have at least a free consultation with a personal trainer to give you some idea of what to do and familiarize you with the equipment. Also, figure out what it is you want to achieve and research as much as you can on how to get there.

beth0277

Yeah, no kidding about the bear making me run faster. I have been running around my neighborhood instead of my favorite trail and have told my husband that I can jump a fence or something if I see a bear in my neighborhood as opposed to out in the woods and he said "Do you think you could jump a fence"? and I said "If a bear was chasing me, yes!"

I have never seen bear spray in smallish cans/bottles. I do carry mace when I run but I'm not sure I could deter a bear with it. The containers of bear spray I have seen are all pretty big and I would think hard to carry on a run. Maybe I'm looking in the wrong place?