Be honest with yourself, how many times have you joined a gym, gone a few times, and then never so much as touched your gym bag for the rest of the year? Don’t beat yourself up about it, it’s more common than you think. 

Many people have decided to get fit recently. There’s nothing like a global health pandemic to focus your mind on your own health and fitness. So if you want to make this membership stick, there are a few things you can do to give yourself the very best chance of success.  

Location, location, location

The location of your gym is one of the most important factors. Yes, the gym further away might be better equipped, with more facilities, but if you’re never going to go, what’s the point. 

Work out if a gym near to your work or home is going to be the best option for you. Many people join one close to work so that they can go early or during their lunch break. 

Of course joining one near home means that you can go in the evenings and weekends. Really think about which will work best for your personality, and join that one. 

Get to know the staff

Just like Cheers, you want to go where everybody knows your name. When you first join a gym, make a point of getting a proper induction and talking to the staff about your fitness goals. They’ll be able to recommend exercise routines, supplements from places like steelsupplements.com and give you advice on proper form. You’ll probably also find that they will be more likely to approach you at the gym and give you encouragement or have a quick chat. Feeling like you belong somewhere will motivate you to go more often. 

Similarly, if you see the same people there often, try saying hello or asking them a question. Soon the social side of your gym-going will be important too. 

Take a class

If you’re new to fitness or lacking direction, exercise classes are great. You’ll be able to select the right type of exercise and level for you and you’ll feel a great sense of accomplishment at the end of the class. If you’re not quite sure what you’re doing when it comes to exercise, just turning up and rattling around a few machines can be demoralizing and you’ll soon lose interest. Classes let you focus. You may also end up getting to know other people who attend the classes too. 

Try and feel confident

Getting the best out of the gym can be hard if you’re lacking in self-confidence over your fitness knowledge or body. Remember, everyone has been where you are. Gyms are full of all people of all shapes and sizes. Focus on yourself rather than others and work towards your goals. Your confidence will soon start to improve. 

Final thoughts 

Gyms are an amazing place to take control of your health and wellbeing and devoting time to your own self-care. Give yourself the very best chance of succeeding.