I don't know how to use the machines at the gym...

sarahrbraun

At most gyms there is always a Gym orientation where they show you how to use the machines. We joined the YMCA, and they showed us how to used all the weight machines, and how to set them correctly, then asked if there were any other machines or work outs we had questions with. And then there is always someone working in the work out room, so if you have questions you can ask them. So if you see a personal trainer walking around your gym, just go up to them and tell them that you had some questions about the equipment and you have never used it before, and they will be able to either help you right then, or set up a time to meet with you and show you. They look pretty intimidating, but all the ones I have met and worked with are all really nice and love helping. Good luck!

THIS^^^ My YMCA has super hot, muscled guys working the fitness floor weekday mornings ( when I go). They are the sweetest, nicest men I know. I absolutely adore them. My favorite one right now is married and expecting his first baby in the spring. Next week he finds out if it is a boy or a girl, and I am crocheting a blanket for the baby.

:laugh: Do you go there for the men or the workout?

#2 stop caring if you look dumb and just play around and figure it out. Everyone learned how to adjust the seats at one time or another.

That's what I was afraid of. :embarassed: ...I just called my gym again and explained that I signed up in April and wanted to know if they teach ppl how to use equipment. He said that after I signed up, I should have had an hour-long orientation going over this and I didn't get that. I said earlier that I did, but I just signed up for a guest pass and got a tour, and signed up officially online. He doesn't think that there's a deadline and is gonna have someone call me to set up my orientation! :bigsmile:

Both? I have been happily married for 19 years, and the trainers are like 25/26 years old.

That being said, I both the trainers I have used. I would trust them with my life, and they are the only spotters I will use when I lift heavy. The first one ( who moved away, then moved back) became a dear friend of mine. He hasn't worked at the gym in 6 months, but we email and text at least weekly, and he has come to my house for coffee 2x.

UCSMiami

I belong to LA Fitness and other than the orientation for new members there is no assistance by the staff or trainers. I was told by one they are not allowed to advise members as the intention is to sign members onto a training contract. One trainer who actually would provide advice was terminated.

Do not the machines have placards indicating muscles used, body position and recommended setup? They should if they are from Icarian, Hammer or Life Fitness.

I should mention the orientation here consist of a walk through which is about five minutes at most.

I train at Lifetime..
Most all of our members receive LT$ for 2 free personal training sessions.. and I am all day long walking the floor answering questions, demonstrating exercises, and when I see people doing things I'm pretty good at, completely wrong (Olympic lifts) I get excited and practically give them another free session. I've never denied anyone who asked me a question an answer b/c they are not paying me lol. In fact, when they decide to pay someone.. I'm the one they are going to come to b/c I did help.

My compliments for doing right by the clients. I recommended to more than one of the staff at LA that a beginning weight training class would help folk and they did not want to listern. The response was they need to sign personal training contracts-no freebies. I am surpised they do not charge for the zumba, spinning or step-abs classes with that attitude.

Typically new folks ask regular members or a regular will step in and assist new folk when they see something being done dangerously. I admit have made a few acaquaintainces in this manner.