So you want to start your journey to a healthier and happier life! Yay! Congrats! I’m so glad to be here to help you on your fitness journey! I'm going to give you my 3 tips to selecting the perfect gym!
Let me start by telling you a little about myself, and my own fitness journey. I began working out during my senior year of high school. I had no idea what I was doing. I did everything wrong in the beginning by exercising every muscle group every day and spent hours in the gym! I would also cut my calories extremely low. I wasn’t overweight but I thought this would help me look more toned!
Fast forward to today, me at 40, and in my opinion, still in amazing shape. I’ve been an avid gym enthusiast all these years!! Now I have learned through trial and error the correct way to workout, be healthy and happy. I’m married to my my wonderful husband, work full time, write this blog and have a step daughter, so I have to squeeze in little workouts during my “me time” which is not a lot! I love it though and have to say it’s better than all the unnecessary hours in the gym!
So now that you know me, let me help you start your journey the correct way! The big question I’m sure you are asking is, where do I start?? How do you begin working out especially if you’ve never been a gym goer?
I can help guide you through the process of getting started. Let’s make that first step to selecting the perfect gym for you!
What are 3 tips to selecting the perfect gym?
Selecting a gym is half the battle to setting yourself up for success! You have to find one that not only meets your needs but is reasonably priced and has a good location for you. In choosing the right gym for you, we want to keep these things in mind.
1. Location
2. Price
3. Function
Location of a gym
The location of the gym is extremely important to me. If I have to spend 30 minutes just to get there I’m much less likely to go. Luckily, I found a gym that is very close to my house. that’s one less excuse for me to say I don’t have time because of traffic, etc. I actually take my gym bag to work so I can stop at the gym for 35-45 minutes before I go home. I’m more likely to go straight from work than if I go home and get comfortable on the couch!
Cost and Function of a gym
The cost and function of the gym is a deciding factor as well. Cost and function are of course intertwined. You can spend a lot or a little depending on your needs. There are many gyms that have low fees. The gym I use is $10 dollars a month for the basic package. It has no daycare which isn’t an issue at this time. The basic package at my gym doesn’t limit the hours of use (some do) and doesn’t include classes or the hydro massage. These things aren’t important to me so I decide to save the money.
However, many people love classes. They can be very beneficial because having a set schedule makes it like an appointment that you don't want to skip. Plus many times you make friends with the instructor or other people in the class which keeps you from skipping class.
This brings us to the most important aspect to selecting the perfect gym, the equipment and the amenities the gym offers.
Think about what YOU need such as equipment, classes, or a day care. Also would you prefer a woman’s only or a coed gym. There are even gyms that have swimming pools, basketball courts, and racket ball!
These things are all great if you'll actually use them. I've tried many different gyms over the years and what I ALWAYS use is cardio equipment, free weights, machines and cables.
Remember just because a gym is more expensive doesn’t mean it is necessarily better. If you would make use of activities such as basketball courts then it may be worth the extra 20 -30 dollars! Just decide what you will really get the most use of.
Take some time to check out the different gyms in your area and do a trial membership if possible.
Finding your inner strength to accomplish goals
Sometimes the biggest hurdle when starting something new is our own insecurities within ourselves. I promise I've been there, feeling intimidated by all of the more seasoned gym veterans. Just remember we all have to start somewhere in this journey to being fit! Don't worry about what anyone else is doing. Just do what you can do!
I promise if you use my 3 tips to selecting the perfect gym and beginners training guide you will have the confidence to get going with your fitness journey. Remember this takes dedication from you! I’ll give you the tools to succeed but you’ll have to do the work! This is a lifestyle mentality, not a quick fix!!
If you are truly a newbie and have never worked out before please consult your doctor first! I have no actual training only 15 + years of experience.
If the gym just isn't an option for you check out my post At Home Workouts.
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