5 Motivating Gym Tips for Beginners !

Fitness Trainer Julia Vins 

          Before headfirst into the practical gym tips for beginners, remember that the most important exercise method is confidence. Whether you're lifting 100 pounds or 10 pound 1 pounds you should be proud of yourself for showing up at the gym at all! Don't be intimidated by others or afraid to ask for help.

Remember that everybody at the gym was once in your shoes. Those first few workouts, no matter how "easy" they are in terms of physical strength, are often the most mentally challenging. Be proud, remain confident and trust that your gym skills & fitness sense will increase over time.

1. STAY STRONG

Beginners often gather to the treadmills & stationary cycles because these machines are easy for all ages & ability levels. But don't get fixed in a cardio rut try incorporating at least 2 days of strength training into your weekly or monthly routine. If you aren't feeling ready to explore the weight room, keep in mind that bodyweight exercises can be just as effective at building strength.

Try one of Planet Fitness' unlimited, free fitness training sessions offered to all members through gym. These little group sessions are led by certified trainers and can teach you basic weight training and workout movements. As well, most Planet Fitness locations offer a 30 minutes Express Circuit training option that can guide you through a full-body workout.

2. WORK HARD

If you Are not sweating by the end of your workout, maybe you aren't pushing yourself hard enough. Try to reach an "out of breath" state at least once during your exercises by incorporating high-intensity movements like sprinting, jumping jacks, bur pees or squat jumps.

3. EAT UP

Working out won't yield results if your diet is not in check, too. Replace unhealthy foods with healthy alternatives & try to cut back on sugar. A good place to start is following the USDA's recommendation of filling as a minimum half of your plate with fruits & vegetables.

It's a good idea to prepare before  every workout with high-protein snacks like nuts, yogurt, deli meat, hummus & cottage cheese. Of course, maintaining a balanced diet will help you meet your fitness goals, but it's also realistic to enjoy an treat here and there!

4. BE REALISTIC

Losing weight, gaining strength, boosting endurance & increasing flexibility are all long-term goals — so you don't expect to reach ultimate strength in a single week. Be realistic about the goals you set for yourself. For example, see if you can add 5 more pounds to your shoulder press or shave 10 seconds off of your mile time within a month.

5. REST & REPEAT

Even the most experienced athletes appreciate the importance of rest after a hard workout. Try to get 8 hours of sleep every night, take at least one rest day a week and at all times walk into the gym ready to do again another solid workout. Once you get into a routine, and then you'll graduate from your "beginner" status in no time.