New to the Gym- What are the expectations for the 1st day?

panda2727
panda2727 Posts: 22 Member
in Motivation and Support
I only worked out for 45 min and I was exhausted. I feel like a whimp and certainly very unfit! How would you start off? I barely know how to use the equipment. I used what looked like an elliptical today. Any recommendations and or help will be appreciated.

I did myfitnesspal for 9 months then went off it when my dad was sick. I have now been back on it for almost a month.
Last night I joined a gym and today was my 1st time going.

Replies

  • upgetupgetup
    upgetupgetup Posts: 749 Member
    Good for you! My advice is to take it slow to start - do something active every day (just walking is great), and do formal 'exercise' 3 x /week.

    The daily stuff is to keep your head in it, make it a habit.

    You could book an appt. with a trainer to introduce you to the equipment, and/or show you how to lift weights. And get the New Rules of Lifting for Women, that's a great introduction for a lot of people.

    Or if your gym offers classes, take one!
  • jzammetti
    jzammetti Posts: 1,956 Member
    Good for you! My advice is to take it slow to start - do something active every day (just walking is great), and do formal 'exercise' 3 x /week.

    The daily stuff is to keep your head in it, make it a habit.

    You could book an appt. with a trainer to introduce you to the equipment, and/or show you how to lift weights. And get the New Rules of Lifting for Women, that's a great introduction for a lot of people.

    Or if your gym offers classes, take one!

    I agree - especially with the book - best $17 I've spent in a log time.
  • tsikkz
    tsikkz Posts: 404 Member
    take a class or spend the money to have an introductory personal training session. Most gyms offer them for free when you sign up and its a great help.

    If that's not an option I would just say quietly observe everyone and see what they do then make a point to try a new machine every day.

    There's no shame in asking an employee how to work something, after all you are paying to be there - Goodluck!
  • CaddieMay
    CaddieMay Posts: 356 Member
    The gym I used to go to had someone to show new people around the first day. They showed me how to use the equipment, etc. Yes, I still felt like an idiot, but after a few times, I didn't care what anyone was thinking. Truth is, I think we are all a bit self-conscious when we go to the gym. We get over it once the heart starts beating and we start feeling better.
  • panda2727
    panda2727 Posts: 22 Member
    My gym doesn't offer trainers and no classes just equipment.
  • renitawalker9
    renitawalker9 Posts: 108
    The internet has everything you need. you can find proper form for any exercise you want to do. Doing a little research will make you feel like a pro when you walk in there.
  • panda2727
    panda2727 Posts: 22 Member
    Thank you, I'm far from a pro! Soon! Thanks for the inspiration everyone :)
  • UsernameStillLoading
    UsernameStillLoading Posts: 299 Member
    The internet has everything you need. you can find proper form for any exercise you want to do. Doing a little research will make you feel like a pro when you walk in there.

    That's true...

    I research exercises to do when I am bored of the exercises I already know. The best way to stay in shape is to keep things fresh.
  • UsernameStillLoading
    UsernameStillLoading Posts: 299 Member
    My advice is to get a workout buddy, that way you won't feel so alone. Try to get someone who shares similar goals to yourself.
    Which brings me to another advice. Set a goal and research how to achieve it.
    If you are going to do weights, you might want to get a spotter. If you go to a friendly gym, you might be able to ask someone who is working out near you for a spot. Some people are happy to do so.
    Hope your journey goes well.
  • dnish53
    dnish53 Posts: 162 Member
    If you did 45 minutes then you are off to a good start.

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