itting the gym tomorrow for the first time in a LONG time!

krissy3773
krissy3773 Posts: 44 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
So I start back to school tomorrow & am going to the gym on campus. I am going alone & havent ever really used the weights or machines other than a treadmill. I don't think they have like personal trainers there to hire or anything & now I am at a loss as to what to do.... idk how those things work & I don't wanna screw up! What do I do?

Replies

  • sarahrbraun
    sarahrbraun Posts: 2,261 Member
    some of the most basic machines have pictures on the side that show you how to sit on them, and how they move. if there are not pictures, wait until someone is done with the machine and ask them if they could please show you how to use it.
  • tndejong
    tndejong Posts: 463
    dont be afraid. walk in and meet new people and read the directions on the machines and ask questions. people are going to respect you more that your interested in learning and will give you advice and tips on things to do to improve your fitness.
  • krissy3773
    krissy3773 Posts: 44 Member
    I just think I will feel so dumb asking... weird right? Does everyone start out like me!? lol
  • MountainMoverJosh
    MountainMoverJosh Posts: 134
    You should have absolutely no problem finding someone to show you the machines for free :wink:

    Just be wary of the pervs and the super-egos (those guys sporting the rocket launchers).
  • krissy3773
    krissy3773 Posts: 44 Member
    Haha! Thank you.
  • caroleannlight
    caroleannlight Posts: 173 Member
    Some suggestions

    Try a book e.g. new rules of weight lifting for women?

    A friend who is a regular /lapsed gym goer?

    You tube has a lot of videos showing correct techniques etc

    I would have thought that there is someone to give you an induction????

    Start Light until you are sure you are doing the right thing or you might get injuries

    GOOD LUCK
  • krissy3773
    krissy3773 Posts: 44 Member
    Thank you. I haven't asked if there is someone there to help yet but I am just assuming not...... I will find out though.
  • AngB83
    AngB83 Posts: 6 Member
    Good for you! You can always hop on the treadmill and scope things out. :)
  • DavPul
    DavPul Posts: 61,406 Member
    By school, I'm assuming you mean college or some other institution of higher learning. Since you have made it this far, i have absolute faith that you can figure out machines and lifts that uneducated meatheads like me have mastered.

    There is a library. Go get any book they have with a beginner's lifting program. There is the internet. Google SL 5x5. There is YouTube. After you read which exercises you will be doing, use YouTube to learn the proper form and how to set up the equipment. Then go lift.

    If, after lifting a few times, you have questions, come back and we'll be happy to answer. But no one, in this day and age, can use the "I don't know how to...." excuse. Everything is available you help you succeed. All one needs is a desire to learn and a little bit of confidence.
  • foleyshirley
    foleyshirley Posts: 1,043 Member
    If you use free weights, there are tons of videos that show how to do certain moves. There may be others in the gym that can help as well (as long as they look like they know what they are doing). I like the idea of checking out books as well.
  • taso42
    taso42 Posts: 8,980 Member
    Generally you would want to have your exercise routine sorted out, then select a gym that will accommodate your training, and then finally head over to the gym to do your work.

    Generally I would recommend a beginner's compound lifting routine, but that is predicated on learning the form for about 4 or 5 different barbell exercises, and having access to a power rack and olympic bar and plates.
  • bdamaster60
    bdamaster60 Posts: 595 Member
    Walking into the gym and expecting to know exactly what to do after a long period absence is unrealistic. It's like speaking a language that you haven't spoken for 10 years... there are going to be lapses. It is a learning process that takes time to build confidence and character. Oh and don't discouraged if you're walking like a cripple 2 days later, it happens to everyone.
  • krissy3773
    krissy3773 Posts: 44 Member
    Thanks alot for all of the advice. & Yes I ment college. :) After 2 kids, and a husband & dead end jobs I am going back to school & doing for me now & that includes taking FULL advantage of their huge gym! :)
  • lscully117
    lscully117 Posts: 11
    YEP..Know how you feel..I too am starting back into the exercise regimen. Good Luck..it will take a week or two to figure the machines out . But once you have them figured out..its like riding a bicycle..it will become habit before you know it.
  • MountainMoverJosh
    MountainMoverJosh Posts: 134
    Thanks alot for all of the advice. & Yes I ment college.

    :ohwell:

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