By Joe Gigantino click Here to view original article
“If you don’t know where you are going, you will wind up somewhere else!” ~ Yogi Berra
Yes, it’s February and many have a full month of their new year’s resolution of starting an exercise program under their belts. But if you’re like the rest, you might still be holding on to that last little bit of procrastination. Perhaps you’re searching for the best deal at the local health clubs or you’re waiting for the wind to blow in your direction just right. As an owner of multiple health clubs, I find a huge number of people who join without a solid goal in mind – they simply want to “get in shape.” And the majority of those people want it to happen yesterday! Don’t get me wrong, we have trained staff to help you with your fitness goals and to get a plan in place that’s specific to your needs. However, there are some things that you can do to make your health club experience, not only more productive while you’re there, but more enjoyable at the same time.
The first day in your health club doesn’t have to be frightening if you prepare yourself properly. I’ve seen the lost looks on many faces when they walk in for the first time – you’d almost think it was their first day of their freshman year of high school! Below are some tips to help you have a better experience with your gym membership:
Map out your plan before you go. You’re probably as strapped for time as the next person, so effectively managing your time at the gym will make a world of difference. For instance, if you’re working with a time constraint, figure out how much time you’ll need in the locker room to change, warming up at the mats, weight training and finishing up with some type of cardio workout. Planning beforehand will also trigger you to bring along the right gear for the activities you have planned.
What to wear, what to wear…You don’t need to spend a lot of money on a whole drawer full of athletic wear, but having the right pieces for your chosen activities can help you feel capable and prepared. Choose things that make you feel happy and comfortable. Two or three pieces of good quality workout apparel are important. Think about how to mix and match different pieces so you can make what you have go further and it will also cut down on the time you spend preparing to go to the gym, possibly even preventing you from going altogether because you think you have “nothing to wear.”
Pre-pack. Keep your gym bag stocked at all times (just like you used to have your school backpack ready). Standard essentials could include a lock for your locker, membership card, MP3 player, water bottle, toiletries and shower shoes, heart-rate monitor, pedometer, socks and other basic items. Of course, there are always those variables depending on any other activities you may have planned – for instance a racquet, goggles, mat, headband, swim gear, etc. .
Buddy up. We’ve talked in the past about the value of having workout partners. Even if it’s just for the first few visits, bringing a friend or planning a specific time to meet at the health club can ease your anxiety and make you feel like you belong. You’ll feel especially empowered if your buddy is a more seasoned gym-goer. If you don’t have anyone interested in coming with you, try making friends while you are there. Chances are there are several others who are feeling as out of place as you are. Strike up a conversation, and you’ll find a new friend in no time. Some of the best friendships I’ve had over the years have been with people I’ve met at the gym during a workout. Keep in mind, however, that you don’t want to become that stalker person who follows others around trying to chat it up. Keep your fitness goals in check and don’t let this become your dating playground.
Hydrate. It’s a good idea to pre-hydrate by drinking 16 to 20 ounces of water 30 to 60 minutes prior to your workout. Then, of course, you’ll need to drink throughout your workout, and post-workout hydration should continue with another 16 to 20 ounces.
Eat for energy. A light snack healthy and rich in complex carbs (e.g. banana, berries, or whole grains) an hour or two before your workout will generate needed energy just in time to start exercising. Don’t make the mistake of eating something that drags you down, making you feel sluggish.
Avoid over scenting. No one wants to stink up the gym with body odor, but taking it to the other extreme is also a no-no. I’ll never forget one guy I encountered while visiting a popular health club chain. His Hai Karate scent trailed from machine to machine. Not to mention that he also sported his thick gold chain over his “beater.” I wanted to say “You’re here to work out dude, not audition for Jersey Shore!
Have your card ready. There’s nothing worse than the people who don’t bother to have their card and or ID ready; they fumble around in their wallet or purse often becoming flustered as a line forms behind them. Lots of membership cards can be easily attached to a key ring or handle of your gym bag.
Ask for what you need. While you’re at the front desk, be prepared to ask any questions you might have. Find out where the weight room is, if there are class-sign ups available, etc. etc. Often many health clubs have an online presence, and you can check out their group fitness classes beforehand. This will save you from having to look for a staff member once you get changed and ready to workout. If there is a first-time orientation offered, don’t skip it! You’ll want to learn as much as you can and take full advantage of your health club membership benefits.
Be courteous. Make it a habit to leave your cell phone in the car. If you simply cannot live that hour without checking your phone, at least make sure you have the ringer on silent out of courtesy to the other members.
Clean up after yourself. You’d think that as adults, we’d know better than to leave a pool of sweat dripping off the elliptical machine, but yes it needs to be said. Bring a towel and use it.
Practice modesty. Some nudity is appropriate and expected in the locker room, but parading around in your birthday suit makes most people uncomfortable. You may think your body should be flaunted, but more than likely you’ll be someone else’s ‘yuck it up’ material during happy hour!
Think about next time. After your workout, before you head back to your car, take note of how much time it took you to complete your workout and also scope out what you might want to do during your next visit. Keep in mind you’ll want to ‘switch it up’ often to avoid getting in a rut. You’ll not only stay motivated, but your muscles will get challenged frequently. Schedule an appointment with a trainer or take a walk by the pool. You’ll leave better informed and equipped with a plan of action. Each time you go, you’ll naturally become more motivated to come back again.
OK, so I’ve had a little fun with some of these tips, but hopefully they will create a more enjoyable health club experience. If you’re feeling like you’re still a rookie, be patient – in no time you’ll be a pro and will helping out those new freshmen! Send this to a friend or your gym buddy and share below.
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