I’ll be the first to admit: I didn’t always like going to gym. It wasn’t because I hated working out–I’m always up for taking a new fitness class or going to yoga or going for a hike. I just didn’t know how to workout.
There was something about the gym itself that I found, well, f*cking intimidating. I felt like anytime I’d been, I had no idea what I was doing and I’d end up just walking around, stretching or going on the treadmill. It felt like a waste of a trip, and I left feeling like a dummy for not knowing any better. How did everyone else seem so confident? Where did they learn what machines did what?
But after some coworkers of mine got gym memberships, I started tagging along, and eventually I started to get a better grasp of what I should be doing. I started to have more of a plan going in. I started to feel stronger and more toned, and I also felt more competent. So if you’ve wanted to get fit, but thought “where should I start?” this one is for you!
1. Start at Home
If you’re just getting started, start in your own living room (or bedroom)! All you need is a bit of space, a yoga mat, some weights and maybe a resistance band.
Use Pinterest and Youtube to find beginner workouts that are easy to follow. (Insert Pinterest board of info graphics)
You can also get fitness apps like Aaptiv (sign up for a free 7-day trial here) or ClassPass that offer audio workouts, so you can plug in some headphones and not have to think about it too much.
2. Take Classes.
3. Get a Gym Membership–and use their free personal trainer session!
Speaking of gyms, getting a gym membership has been a game changer in my fitness this year. If you’re like me, maybe you don’t have one because you have no idea what you’re doing. That’s okay! Most gyms have a free personal trainer session when you sign up so they can teach you have to safely use the equipment.
If you want to just test the waters, ask your friends if their gym has a free class pass for friends–you can do a free trial and see if it’s something you can fit into your schedule.
Personally, I never thought the idea of going to the gym to be particularly appealing, but now I find I’m way more likely to go if I decide to do it first thing than after a long day of work when I’d rather have a glass of wine.
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4. Download a Workout Program
Want a little more structure at the gym? Get a program that gives you daily workouts! AFLETE has been my new obsession this year. A lot of my favourite fitness influencers (like Natacha Oceane and Tara Crosley have their own workout programs through the app, so you can just go to the gym with a plan they’ve created. The program often includes videos, PDFs and other ways to help you get your fit on!
5. Do activities that you actually like
This sounds like a no brainer, but if you hate the gym or if you hate running don’t do it. You’ll never stick to a routine that makes you miserable. If you love dance (like me!) or team sports (not like me) then do that!
Biking, hiking, and swimming are all great activities that don’t really feel like working out. Find what makes you happy!
What are some of your favourite ways to get in shape? Leave me a comment below!
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