First time at the gym
The gym, studio space, or even outdoor bootcamp can be an intimidating environment. For many people starting on their road to fitness, these spaces are less than inviting.
A trendy spin studio can be dimly lit and a place where everyone knows each other u2014 leaving you feeling like youu2019re experiencing high-school flashbacks. Maybe your yoga studio has so many equipment options that you donu2019t even know where to start. Do you need a block? A bolster? A strap? What even are these rollers?
And gym lockers. Will you remember your code or will you embarrass yourself by getting the person on the desk to unlock it for you?
Being in any new space can trigger anxiety, even from the most experienced gym-goer. But, like most things in life, the key is really to think about this gym time as your time. It doesnu2019t matter what everyone else is doing. If you can focus on yourself and what you need to get out of your time at the gym, it can help all these distractions fade into the background.
Prepare yourself
Asking questions, even ones you think might be stupid, is a good way to familiarize yourself with a space. The people on the desk u2026 itu2019s their job to help you. Anything you can ask has probably already been asked (in a much ruder way!) many times.
Google the gym or class before you go and read reviews. Everyone likes to complain online and while these reviews shouldnu2019t be held as gospel, they can help prepare you for whatu2019s to come.
Arrive early and get comfortable in the space. If youu2019re taking classes, the instructors will probably introduce themselves and be honest about your fitness level. Theyu2019ll appreciate it and keep your issues in mind.
The trick with any studio or gym is to think of it as a space that exists for YOU. Without you, there wouldnu2019t be any business. They want you to have a positive experience and most gyms want active feedback.
We all had our first days in class where we felt like outsiders. And most of us accidentally walked into the wrong change room, opened a door that turned out to be a supply closet, and yes u2026 forgot our locker combination. Just showing up is points enough so take that first step and be brave. Soon, someone new will be looking to you and asking where the bathroom is.
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