Joining the Y.

KendleX

Not a big deal to most, but tomorrow it is planned that I join the YMCA. (Lino Lakes)

I have NOT a clue what to do once I get in there. Its a little embarrassing, but I more than likely I am going to look like that dear in the headlights. No plan other than to get in shape. But I do want to learn how to play racquetball.

Question: Did you have a plan when you joined your first Gym? What would be a good action plan for my first week.

StarryOne

Just go and try things out. I never had a plan- and still don't. I vary my workouts a lot- sometimes I bike, sometimes I walk on the treadmill, sometimes I walk/run on the treadmill, sometimes I swim, sometimes I combine all of the above. For me, variety is key to going to the gym regularly. Try combining and cardio and strength training into your visits. I do absolutely love racquetball and play at least once a week. It is a great sport and definitely think you should try it- I find racquetball enthusiasts always love teaching new players the game, so don't be afraid to ask someone to teach you! Have fun.

Brittany3914

I go to the Y in Winona and it's BY FAR the best gym I've gone to. Let the staff give you a tour! That will help. Once you're familiar with where the locker rooms/weights/ellipticals/courts/tracks are, I'm sure you'll feel comfortable and want to start trying new things.There are tons of fitness classes (land and water) that are free of charge to members. ENJOY!

smbkrn

The Y's within the Twin Cities area include an introductory fitness assement. They will go over goals, nutrition, and an overall fitness plan for you. It takes about an hour. That is a great time to ask questions about the different areas of the gym. I even had them show how to use the pull-up assist machine. If you hate hanging out ont he gym floor like I do, you can always take a class. Just ask other members what you need to get for the class (it will all be provided in the studio). I have been a first timer at many classes and everyone has been very helpful. I burn approx. 500 calories in RIPPED, Body Pump, and the 45 min Group Cycle class. ENJOY!

aj_31

Not a big deal to most, but tomorrow it is planned that I join the YMCA. (Lino Lakes)

I have NOT a clue what to do once I get in there. Its a little embarrassing, but I more than likely I am going to look like that dear in the headlights. No plan other than to get in shape. But I do want to learn how to play racquetball.

Question: Did you have a plan when you joined your first Gym? What would be a good action plan for my first week.

* I realize I'm posting this really late but......

If you want to lift weights I suggest looking up StrongLifts 5x5 which is a great program for beginners. My husband is using the 5x5 philosophy and went from benching like 180 to 225 in a month or less. I went from squating the bar which is 45 lbs to 115 lbs.

Another great site is bodybuilding.com. You can find a lot of great programs to follow on there and they also give you a diet to follow if you want. I've done some of those workouts as well and they are really good.

Or if you are interested in classes at the YMCA - I would suggest BodyPump. That is a great class to start with. I lost most of my weight taking that class 2x a week for 2 yrs along with some of their other cardio/strength classes.