If you\u2019ve decided that 2020 is the year you\u2019re finally going to get in amazing shape, know that the gym doesn\u2019t have to be an intimidating place for any fitness newbie. Many people are just starting their fitness journey for the very first time too!<\/p>\n
While many gyms and fitness clubs are sure to offer a wide variety of toning and sculpting equipment, you should know that there other ways to make the most of your gym membership. To make sure you’re taking advantage of everything your gym has to offer, we tapped three personal trainers to share some helpful tips.<\/p>\n
Get a tour of your gym Try a complimentary training session<\/strong> Find support in a group class Use the gym for things you can’t do at home
\n<\/strong>Although certain areas of the gym may appear to be outside of your comfort zone from first glance, NASM-certified personal trainer Tracy Rodriguez<\/a> always recommends getting a full scope of your workout space. Chances are, you may be missing out on something you really could enjoy, so she always advises taking the time to ask a staff member to give you a full tour. \u201cGetting a tour and asking questions on how to use equipment can give you the confidence to do things in your fitness routine that you wouldn’t have otherwise,\u201d Rodriguez tells FabFitFun. \u201cMost of my clients were terrified of the squat rack until we incorporated it into our training sessions.\u201d<\/p>\n
\nOnce you\u2019ve taken the tour of your gym, Rodriguez also suggests looking into booking a complimentary training session with a trainer. Doing so can help you develop a sound workout routine that will help you stay committed to any of your health goals. \u201cAlmost every gym offers a complimentary initial training session with a personal trainer,\u201d she explains. \u201cThis is your chance to discuss your goals, get guidance on form and find out the most effective way to use your time in the gym.\u201d<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>Classes at your gym (which are usually free) are a great place to interact with others, according to Rodiguez, as they allow you to build a tight-knight community. \u201cHaving community and support from others is one of the most effective ways to make sure you stick to your 2020 fitness goals,\u201d she says. \u201cGroup fitness classes at your gym are a great way to build new friendships with people.\u201d<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>Though a sweat session on the treadmill can be nothing short of exhilarating,\u00a0personal trainer Kathryn Alexander<\/a> advises using the gym for exercises and activities you can\u2019t do at home. This especially rings true for those trying to build strength. \u201cYou can do cardio at home (or outside), but unless you have a significant amount of weights at home, you’ll need to build strength at the gym,\u201d Alexander tells FabFitFun. \u201cStrength benefits everybody at any age.\u201d<\/p>\n