First time at a gym...

imperfection_is_beauty · July 2011

It's my first time actually going to a gym and being serious about loosing weight, problem is I'm not sure what equipment to even get started on. I don't want to over work my body, but I want to be able to get in a good exercise. What would you suggest? Thanks for any information. (:

alpepp · July 2011

Just jump in, commit and do it.

This is the routine I started with and am continuing (stopped and did a routine that did NOT work for me). The more muscle you put on, the more calories you will burn while resting. This is a great combo of free weights and machines and there are videos to show you how to do them properly and safely. Since you have a bit to lose (close to how much I have to lose as well), do extra cardio in addition to what this plan calls for.

http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/lee-labrada-12-week-lean-body-trainer-week-1-main.html

Don't let the meatheads in the gym intimidate you. Just get in there and do your thing. This plan calls for you to be in the gym every day, including your rest days (just a quick 30 minute cardio session).

27strange · July 2011

Are you going to the gym multiple days in a row? If so, I would do some strength traning (weight machines, free weights) every other day and focus on cardio the other days or do some cardio all days. Use the elliptical, treadmill, or exercise bike for cardio increasing your time on the cardio machines as you build endurance. Generally, people are pretty friendly at the gym and can show you how to use equipment you never have before. Also, be an observer, while working out on one machine watch what others are doing on other equipment and weight machines and learn how to use them by observing. Does the gym offer classes, like zumba, kettle balls, spinning, etc? If so, think about signing up for a class and giving different things a try. Don't be afraid and don't be shy. The only way to learn is to do and to try different workouts out and see what you enjoy and what works best for you. Good luck and remember getting to the gym regularly is the toughest battle!

mmiiaa · July 2011

I'm not sure how in shape you are, but I'm... not so much. I went to my gym for the first time today and found that doing everything in 10 - 20 minute intervals was good, and walking in between. At the end, I did a bit of strength training before taking my final 20 minute walk.

Go ahead and give everything a try. If you don't like it, stop after 10 minutes. If you like it, keep going for another 10, 20. Don't over work yourself though. If it gets too hard, then get off. Don't just completely stop moving though when you can be burning calories by something as simple as walking. (:

demonNIИ · July 2011

I really get motivated by not only cardio machines/weight machines but group activity like Sculpt class or a Sculpt/Bootcamp/Step combo class they burn up to 500-600 calories...depends on the instructor. They keep me going every day love the interaction...not feeling so lonely and isolated on a machine

Schwiggity · July 2011

It depends on what you're looking to do. If you're not wanting to do a class or (like me) don't have access to them at your gym, then you can always find a good strength training routine online, do that about 3 days per week (with at least one day break in between each day) and find some cardio machines you like.

AlsDonkBoxSquat · July 2011

Most gyms offer a couple of free sessions with a trainer, if you haven't take advantage of it. I teach group fitness classes and am a huge fan. They can be super intimidating, but my favorite participants are the new ones. Show up, know that it will take at least 3 classes to get it, introduce yourself to the instructor before hand and ask for tips, then talk to them afterwords and ask for pointers. Everyone belongs in a group ex class.

First time at a gym...

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