The Ultimate Guide to Surviving Your First Week at the Gym

Pixabay - markusspiske

Brooklyn Besz | Writer

The gym can be a scary place for people who are new or fear judgement. But here's the truth: the only person who matters is you. I have been attending the gym for about two years now, and at first, I was too scared to even get off the treadmill. Let me share how you can start your journey. 

Always bring a water bottle or energy drink if you’d like an extra caffeinated boost. I always carry a bag around with me, but if you would rather keep your belongings  in a locker, bring a lock.

Now, let’s talk about workouts. During  your first week at the gym, focus on the three main areas: cardio, machines, and stretching. Start with  arm circles or leg swings for a warmup and holding position stretches as a cooldown. Next, it is up to you whether you would like to do cardio or use the machines - I like to change it up every time. 

For the first week, a plan I recommend is called the (20-20-20 plan): 20 minutes cardio, 20 minutes on machines, and 20 minutes of stretching and relaxation. 

Lastly, there’s unwritten rules at the gym. Gym etiquette is very important! Make sure you always re-rack weights when finished and wipe down machines after use. This helps prevent accidental injuries and the spread of germs. 

The gym can be intimidating, but nobody is there to judge you, and everyone was once in the same boat. It is all about stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new!