How to make your first day at the gym easier and enjoyable

The opening of the new sports and wellbeing centre on campus is the perfect opportunity to get into new, healthy and confidence-building habits. But starting at a new gym can be intimidating. Whether you are returning to the gym after a short break or you are a complete newbie, there are ways to make your time there easier. From avoiding misuse of equipment to feeling confident when surrounded by aspiring bodybuilders, we at The Boar understand you need a little bit of help finding your feet when beginning anything new.

With the rise of fitness bloggers and apps, learning how to exercise correctly is easier than ever

The first piece of advice that will make going to the gym easier is research. You wouldn’t turn up to a seminar without doing the reading (okay, maybe that isn’t the best example) so why have no knowledge when entering the gym? With the rise of fitness bloggers and apps, learning how to exercise correctly is easier than ever. Many Instagram accounts are dedicated solely to fitness, videos posted showing a circuit of exercises targeted at specific parts of your body. By searching through hashtags you can find the perfect workout on your phone and bring it with you into the gym. It is important to remember, however, that just because someone has a fitness blog they are not automatically an expert in what they are talking about. Corroborate what they say with other bloggers and websites to make sure they aren’t spreading bad practice and, above all, make sure you pay attention to tips on form so you don’t injure yourself.

Form is what you are most likely to be spoken to about. If a personal trainer or helpful gym-goer gives you advice on your form there is no need to feel embarrassed or intimidated. Whilst some people may just be rude (in which case, feel free to be annoyed at them), most are simply trying to help you avoid injury. Incorrect form can be very dangerous and therefore it is important to take on board the advice you are given. If you are skeptical of the advice you have been given by a peer, seeking the assistance of someone who works at the gym will help to ensure you know what you are doing and are unlikely to injure yourself.

Attending classes is also one way to ensure you are doing worthwhile exercises

Accepting support from others is important when trying anything new. The best way to feel confident when in a new environment is to bring a friend, so attending the gym with those around you can be the confidence boost you need. They do not necessarily need to be of the same level as you: if they have more experience, they can offer guidance in a way that strangers cannot. Even if your friend does not have the knowledge to help you, however, learning alongside someone can also make you feel more confident.

Attending classes is also one way to ensure you are doing worthwhile exercises and always have the support needed close by. If these are not for you, following the circuits posted by social media influencers and fitness apps is a good alternative. The most important thing to remember is that everyone had to begin somewhere and, whether they learnt through lessons or research online, progress is something that is earned, not handed.