Finally went to the other side of the gym.

bluecrush84
bluecrush84 Posts: 77 Member
edited March 2017 in Fitness and Exercise
I today I went the gym with a plan. Not just my usual 35 on the elliptical and 10 on the stair step machine. I went to the daunting side of the gym....weights. I have always wanted to go where the cools kids were at but I was clueless about where to start or how. Worried about wasting my time, hurting myself or looking a fool. Well, I finally took the time to find a strength trading workout plan online that worked for me. Recorded short videos on my phone that showed me how to use the machines and use proper form. I also wrote down the names of the exercises and the reps I would do. Headphones on, cell phone and paper in hand I went to the other side.

I did feel a rush of adrenaline as I made my way. TLC in my ears and tunnel vision to my first machine.

I took my time to get to know the machines I used and proper form. I am slow now but I know I will get faster once I get the hang of it.

I have wanted to do this for years but getting into it seemed like a huge mountain.

I am so happy I did it. I took the first step towards weightlifting, building strength and sculpting/toning my body.

Replies

  • LeoT0917
    LeoT0917 Posts: 206 Member
    Way to go!!!
  • JohnnyPenso
    JohnnyPenso Posts: 412 Member
    Best thing to do when starting out is to start slow, with lower weights than you can handle, and work your way up. I'd look at a program like Stronglifts 5x5 or NROWLFW as a good way to get off on the right foot with compound lifts that maximize your results with the minimum time invested. Form is critical. I'd think about hiring a trainer that's experienced in lifting freeweights to teach you proper form for at least a couple of sessions.

    Good luck, you'll do fine, and with a proper program you're going to be amazed at what you'll be able to do in 2 or 3 months.
  • MissyK222
    MissyK222 Posts: 204 Member
    So great!!! I'm happy that your confidence is building! soon enough you are going to be a pro at the weights! :smile:
  • merrysailor88
    merrysailor88 Posts: 1,260 Member
    I am so happy to hear that you finally conquered your fears! Soon, you will learn to love it. I know I did!
  • dwrightlaw
    dwrightlaw Posts: 804 Member
    I have felt the same level of intimidation at venturing into the free weight section, after months of wanting to go there, I finally got the courage...I started SL5x5. I am excited that you were able to overcome your fears. :)
    Pretty soon you'll be a pro!
  • CarlydogsMom
    CarlydogsMom Posts: 645 Member
    Good for you! This will carry over in SO many other parts of your everyday life. After learning the compound lifts like squats, deadlifts, bench press, and overhead press, my ability to lift heavy items (from the floor; over my head; whatever) has improved dramatically, as has my form! Lifting the huge full water jug above shoulder height to replace the empty one is easier--and I don't struggle, so I don't risk throwing my back out of whack. Stuff like that.

    To say nothing of how weights will maintain (or increase) your bone density; maintain your muscle mass over time; or how your confidence level will improve.

    There's no downside, so congratulations!
  • Meganthedogmom
    Meganthedogmom Posts: 1,639 Member
    I love this!!! That is awesome, OP. This post made me so happy. :)
  • lorrpb
    lorrpb Posts: 11,463 Member
    Congrats! You had a plan and are making it happen, way to go!
  • pondee629
    pondee629 Posts: 2,469 Member
    " I went to the other side."
    And there weren't any ogres, monsters nor anything horrible. Just people working out to/with their own programs, minding their own business and leaving me to myself. Just imagine. Congratulations on coming over to the "other"side.
  • juliewatkin
    juliewatkin Posts: 764 Member
    It took me about a year to work up the courage. Now it's 10 years later. I think it was harder to make myself do that, by myself than compete at just about any meet.
  • onward1
    onward1 Posts: 386 Member
    Yay, right where you belong!
  • alfalfasprout
    alfalfasprout Posts: 7 Member
    Nice work OP! I felt completely intimidated the first time too, but it does get easier!
  • bluecrush84
    bluecrush84 Posts: 77 Member
    It felt great. I feel a little sore but good. I will be going back today.
  • mgutierrez3h0
    mgutierrez3h0 Posts: 10 Member
    The only reason I don't like going to the other side is because that's the "men's section" and I feel awkward and uncomfortable with them watching me lift or w/e. Congrats to you. :) Hopefully one day I'll be able to go there all by myself.
  • pondee629
    pondee629 Posts: 2,469 Member
    I guess Northern New Jersey is just so progressive, or what ever. The "other" side of my gym, the free weight and dumbbell section, has, at least, a 40% female attendance. Classes are another story, being mostly female, but the gym floor is pretty well mixed. Take a closer look, you may be surprised at the number of females lifting. In any event, there is truly nothing to worry about. Nobody is: "Sitting on a park bench..."

  • Stacie215
    Stacie215 Posts: 18 Member
    I'm starting something new on tomorrow. A 6 week excerise & weight loss challenge with Heroic Fitness which will force me to the " other side of the gym". Pray for a sista, excited & scared.
  • deluxmary2000
    deluxmary2000 Posts: 981 Member
    Congrats OP! Just remember that there's no rule that says only men can go in the free-weight area, and you belong there just as much as anyone else.

    I was the only girl lifting at my gym for a good 6 months, and now I'm seeing some new women wander over and I think it's GREAT.
  • jessiferrrb
    jessiferrrb Posts: 1,758 Member
    a72e4ea2471b8d281c3f13bf94699cc7.gif
  • quiksylver296
    quiksylver296 Posts: 28,439 Member
    jessiferrrb wrote: »
    a72e4ea2471b8d281c3f13bf94699cc7.gif

    Right?!?

    OP, your post made me smile! Welcome to the fun side of the gym!
  • Katiebear_81
    Katiebear_81 Posts: 719 Member
    Yes! This is great!

    I go to a ladies gym, so I didn't feel quite as awkward going over to the "other side" (although when I first did, it was the "empty" side... now it's really busy too!). It's been a while, now, and I think you're going to be happy about the change! :D
  • JoRocka
    JoRocka Posts: 17,525 Member
    pondee629 wrote: »
    I guess Northern New Jersey is just so progressive, or what ever. The "other" side of my gym, the free weight and dumbbell section, has, at least, a 40% female attendance. Classes are another story, being mostly female, but the gym floor is pretty well mixed. Take a closer look, you may be surprised at the number of females lifting. In any event, there is truly nothing to worry about. Nobody is: "Sitting on a park bench..."

    Meh- I'm outside Trenton- the other day I gleefully noted (and pointed out to my friend) that the whole free weight section was all women.

    There were 8 of us? I think by the time I got over to talk to her there were 2 guys that wandered over- but really- it was all just women. it was kind of awesome.


    OP
    I have wanted to do this for years but getting into it seemed like a huge mountain.
    it was only a mountain in your head unfortunately- but I'm REALLY happy you took the steps to cross over to the "Dark side"

    the fun side- where we have cookies and barbells. it'll only get better :) and you'll feel really good about going in there and smashing things as you get more comfortable.
  • rhtexasgal
    rhtexasgal Posts: 572 Member
    I go to a no-nonsense gym that actually caters to bodybuilders and those competing. However, because it is in a neighborhood shopping center, it also gets quite a few "regular" folks like me. And the great news is that the "other" side of the gym is an equal opportunity place where I go. There are just as many women pumping iron as men. Plus, the body builders will give you pointers if they feel you are doing something wrong. They gave me the basics but I also pay for personal training with the gym owner who is also a former bodybuilding competitor. I have been his client for 3 years and have never hurt myself.

    Congrats on making it to the other side ... I bet you will fall in love with weightlifting. It gives me a sense of empowerment and makes me feel good after a workout.
  • CeeBeeSlim
    CeeBeeSlim Posts: 1,347 Member
    Ugh! Why did I read this? Ready to start Strong Curves and talked myself out of using my gym membership to train due to my discomfort at the "other side". Spent all last night and this morning pricing adjustable weight benches - even posted about recommendations minutes ago!! - when the gym is ACROSS THE STREET! You inspired me to rethink the purchase, but a bench is always good to have at home, right? RIGHT?! Haha!
  • pondee629
    pondee629 Posts: 2,469 Member
    " when the gym is ACROSS THE STREET"

    How much per month is the Gym right across the street. I go to RetroFitness @ $21.36 per month including taxes. My health plan at work pays me $20 for each month I go to that gym at least 12 times per month. But that just me.

    What are your costs for what you want in your home gym/facility, not counting the space required. Now look at the "extra" stuff that gym across the street has that you wouldn't buy but would use if given the opportunity (treadmill, elliptical, rowing machine, squat cage et.al.). Now is it more cost effective to belong to the gym or own your own stuff?

    Understanding that people who go to a gym and use free weights are not monsters the decision becomes one of cost effectiveness and effectiveness in training. This decision is personal to each one of us but, unless your gym is populated by Neanderthals, the nature of your fellow gym attendees should not be a negative factor.

    FWIW I do have a set of the 50# PowerBlocks and a bench in my basement for use when I want to.
  • girlwithcurls2
    girlwithcurls2 Posts: 2,281 Member
    This post made me smile. I want to be you. Hopefully I can get my nerve up and do it too. All the same reasons why you didn't do it. People like me need to hear what people like you do because we're the same kind of people! :blush:
  • CeeBeeSlim
    CeeBeeSlim Posts: 1,347 Member
    @pondee629

    Hmmm. In in NYC, so my gym is $100/month! TBH, if the gym was all women, this wouldn't be an issue, and I'd be there 5 days a week - three for my Strong Curves workout, and two days for cardio (treadmill, bike, yoga, other classes I like for social reasons).

    The weight benches I've been looking at are at max $300.00, but the convenience of a home workout was nice but not critical to my decision. It was the discomfort of the gym.

    Having said that, I was surprised to see that some of the men training (i scoped the other side!) were actually doing what I was self-conscious to do - bring pen, paper, write notes, etc.

    Sigh. I'll keep working on building up the courage, but like you said you have both the gym and your house as options?
  • mreichard
    mreichard Posts: 235 Member
    Loved reading your post OP. Everyone should do what you did with things they want to try but are afraid to do. Congrats.

    This also reminded me to be nice to people who seem new and look a little lost.
  • RedSquadronLeader
    RedSquadronLeader Posts: 84 Member
    jessiferrrb wrote: »
    a72e4ea2471b8d281c3f13bf94699cc7.gif

    My thoughts exactly. OP, welcome to the dark side, you're going to fit in perfectly!

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