Hey, if you are reading this, it means you are interested to start working out at the gym but have never done so before?
Its rather easy to feel intimidated by others in the gym, especially when they look 2-3 times your size. You might be feeling afraid or embarrassed. Basically, you don't feel comfortable being at the gym with those wary eyes staring at you.
However, there is really nothing to be afraid or embarrassed about. To be honest, if someone that the gym were to judge/criticize you while you are there, it probably means that they aren't serious lifters. They are probably one of those know-it-all or show offs. Most serious lifters would mind their own business and be focused on doing their workout than paying attention to others. That being said, there is really nothing for you to be embarrassed about and do not worry!
How to get started?
#1: Basics
Make sure you are able to do some of these basic exercises
Push up (3 set of 20 reps)
Squats (3 set of 20 reps)
Plank (30s)
This is just a general guideline and it is not definitive of your strength/capabilities.
By being able to do those exercises above, you have the basic strength foundation that will help you when you are at the gym.
#2: Grab a friend
Try to look around for a friend who regularly visits the gym! This is one of the fastest way that you can learn and grow. By tagging along, you have someone to keep you in check and at the same time correct your mistakes along the way.
Even if your friend isn't an expert, now you won't feel so lonely/embarrassed! Make some friends at the gym as well! Learning from others is one of the best ways that we can improve in a short duration of time. However, a word of caution would be that, since your friend might not be an expert/professional, there is a possibility that the knowledge that they told you might not be 100% accurate! So sometimes, do take it with a pinch of salt.
#3: Go during 'off' hours
Visiting the gym when there are lesser people around, might be more conducive for your own practice and learning. You have the freedom to try out different equipment and exercises. Best thing about it? You don't have to worry about rushing through your set just because the person waiting in line is twice your size.
#4: Plan & Research
Plan out your goals and how you want to achieve them! Research on what workouts you could do to help you reach your goals. Don't go into this blindly and do any exercise you see others doing. Those exercises may not be the ones that can help you reach your goal!!
#5: Set a schedule
Set aside a date and time. Fixed it on your calendar. By doing so, it makes the process easier in terms of keeping track of your progress as well as how. Setting a timeline for yourself would also help you reach your goals in a more steady rate.
#6: Turn up
Don't give excuses! Many of us might do the planning, research, setting aside time for this but at the end, do not turn up for the gym sessions. DO NOT be like that. No matter how tired or busy you are, make the effort to turn up!
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