Every January, countless people make the resolution to start hitting up the gym.
(And to be clear, its not on you to overcome the systemic barriers to feeling included.
These are just tips to help get you a little more hype for your workout!)
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Pick one thing and get really good at it.
Youll have that self-assurance behind you from already getting really good at one thing to bolster you.
There is no one right way to do fitness, saysAmanda Wheeler, C.S.C.S., trainer atMark Fisher Fitness.
The very best fitness plan is the one you enjoy and can be consistent with.
If you find something you love, it will be way easier to show up over time.
Wear clothes that make you feel good.
(Need some inspiration?
Here are22 amazing workout leggingsto get you started.)
Make friends with the front desk staff.
Ever feel slightly envious of those subtle hello nods the gym regulars give each other when they arrive?
If the front desk staff doesnt know the answer, they can track down someone for you who does.
Walk in with a plan.
Snell says that she does this personally, even though shes a gym regular at this point.
Although I am no stranger to the gym, there are days where I dont want to be spontaneous.
Its good to remain a bit flexible, though, to accommodate how youre feeling that day.
Set a start and end time for your session.
Speaking of having a workout plan, set a hard start and hard stop for your routine.
For example, go in at 5 p.m. and plan to be out the door by 5:45 p.m. You dont need to kill yourself at the gym or be there for two-plus hours to see results.
Learn the high-traffic times, so youre not in for a surprise.
If I attend my home gym, I am typically aware of the peak hours.
Or if the cardio machines are all in use, maybe the TRX area is free.
Plan out some moves in advance that can help you take advantage of equipment thats more available.
Sign up for group fitness classes.
One great way to see to it you make it there?
Sign up in advance for agroup class.
The camaraderie that comes from group workouts can not be beat.
Most gyms and class apps charge you for not showing up, says Fagin.
McSpadden also suggests leaning on gym staff to help you decide which classes to try.
Enlist a buddyor make a new one.
Cant persuade a friend to take on the gym-buddy role?
She suggests going up to someone you admire in between sets and giving them a small, genuine compliment.
It can be as simple as telling them you love their sneakers or leggings.
And if you miss a day, they will ask where you were.
Friends are free accountability partners and make you comfortable and feel welcomed!
Invest in a few sessions with a personal trainer.
Take comparing yourself to others off the table.
Remember, everyone was a beginner at some point and felt just as uncertain as you, Wheeler adds.
Keep reminding yourself of that every time you walk into the gym.
Find an online community to help you feel supported.
To help you feel comfortableinyour gym, you might benefit from reaching out to some people outside of it.
Remind yourself: You belong there.
You belong to the gym just like everyone else there.
You pay the same amount of money.
You have the right to all the areas and equipment.
If youre ever feeling intimidated, remind yourself its your space too.
Thesizeism, ableism, and transphobia within the fitness industry is a real and widespread problem.
