It’s the start of a new year and for many of us that means the promise of joining a gym and getting regular exercise. But let’s face it, going to a gym or health club can be a little intimidating. A recent survey found that between 30 and 40% of people who have a gym membership say they never use it. Think about it—paying monthly for something you never use... Very often, people get caught up in the sales and marketing efforts around the New Year and join. Then they go for a few weeks and find the gym really isn’t a good match. So here are some simple actions to get the most out of your membership:
1. Find a gym or club that is close to home or work- the closer it is, the more likely you are to go.
2. Take a tour and ask as many questions as you want before you join. Make sure it’s the right gym for you. What kind of people work out there- are they like you? Does the staff look friendly or intimidating? Do you feel at ease while you’re taking the tour?
3. Take advantage of free personal training or use of a trainer for a short time – you’ll get familiar with the equipment and develop a workout routine.
4. Finally, if you’re feeling a little self-conscious, train during “off –peak hours” when the gym is less crowded.
Remember, every person in the gym was unsure of themselves the first time they joined. The longer you stick with it, the more comfortable it will become.
3 comments:
Hello Dr. Josh,
I have found that I fell into this exact 30-40% who do not use a gym membership and my gym was too far away...this was last year. I decided to try a personal trainer and I loved how my trainer kept me accountable and I definitely lost weight as did my wallet. I still wanted to be held accountable on my workouts so I did a Google Search for "Virtual Fitness" and Online Personal Trainers. I found a site http://www.virtualfitnesscoach.com that is just that. I converse both on the phone via email and with "Virtual Mel" who is a 30 year trainer professional. He developed a custom workout and nutrition plan for me at the cost of only $30 a month, I have been with them for 2 months and really enjoy the experience. Thanks for the good tips!
That's a great idea-- it solves one of the key components to maintaining behavior change- having support... You are getting both the information you need AND the accountability you need... Good for you-- hang in there and if you ever find yourself slipping-- shoot me a note!
People who don't like to go to the mall, are usually the ones that are afraid to go to the gym. It's not the gym they are really afraid, but the commotion inside.
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