“Roll on Febuary!” … “When will they leave?” It’s sad to hear negative remarks from people in the gym as January approaches, shamefully I was once that person. I moaned about the sudden mass of people in the gym, I got annoyed the person using the equipment I wanted didn’t even know how to use it. This attitude can be so damaging so if you’re someone thinking like this, or if you’re thinking about joining, please read on.
To the gym Veterans…
I was a newbie once too, as we all were at some point. You may indeed have forgotten your first day in a gym but I’m sure you would have been a bit nervous. Maybe you needed to read some instructions on the machines, or felt embarrassed when you were corrected. Perhaps you studied some workout videos in advance so you had a plan when you arrived.
Some New Year newbies may have toyed with the idea of joining a gym for months or even years. If this Year is the time they have the courage to join then please be kind to them. Help them feel welcome and glad they finally did! Before you roll your eye or make a sly remark, think about what it might do to someone’s already low self esteem, how it could affect their slowly growing confidence.
If you see someone looking a little lost or nervous, give them a smile, check if they’re ok or point them to the staff (we’re there to help!). Everyone starts somewhere, and we should be praising those people for having the confidence to start their fitness journey. Remember the gym is a space for people to feel good about themselves, to feel strong!
To the New Year Newbies…
If you indeed are that new person, you probably feel nervous and maybe a little intimidated (see another blog of mine for more tips). It may be easier said than done but try not to worry! Most people at the gym have had a little more practice at being there but you deserve to be there just as much as anyone else.
Concentrate on what you’ve gone there to do. Try new equipment, test the classes, book an induction or even get in touch with a PT to learn some basics and help get you started. There’s also lots of ideas you can find online, write these down or save them on your phone. Please don’t feel embarrassed if you need to look at them! So what if you have to remind yourself of what some equipment looks like or what your form should look like? I still carry a notebook with a list of exercises in every time I train.
Let’s sum up
Newbies, hello and welcome. Well done for getting started and if you need anything just ask. Veterans, be kind to those you were once were, offer words of encouragement and helpful tips for getting started. Happy New Year everyone, let’s make it a strong one!
