If you’re a beginner at the gym, the weights section can look pretty intimidating. It can seem like a private area that only the super-fit access, with VIP status. But don’t become stuck in the mindset that if you don’t have big bulging muscles, then you don’t have any business being there. Strength training is important for everyone, and not just the bronzed and brawny!
Here are our top 4 suggestions for getting over your fear:
1. Talk to a Personal Trainer
A couple of reasons people have a fear of the weights sections is that they’re not sure what to do or that they’ll do something wrong and injure themselves. Enlisting the help of a personal trainer is a good way to get educated on how to use the weights correctly in a non-judgemental environment. A personal trainer can design you a basic workout routine, so you feel comfortable using different types of weights.
2. Online research
Watching videos online and practising the movements (with or without the weights) can be helpful before you tackle the gym. Knowing which weights target different sets of muscle groups .and how to perform certain exercises will arm you with some knowledge, so you don’t feel so uninformed. Education can empower you! Check out this blog post for some handy hints about targeting the muscles in your arms and this one for targeting the muscles in your core/legs.
3. Adjust your mindset
Sometimes it’s all about adjusting the mindset. If you look at weights as hard, heavy objects that could give you an injury then you’re bound to feel overwhelmed. But many objects we carry or lift in our daily lives are as heavy, if not heavier, than weights. You could gain an injury by lifting a suitcase up a flight of stairs or putting a load of shopping in the boot of your car. Even by lifting your kids up when they start crying! If you stop thinking about lifting weights in negative terms, it will become second nature.
4. Choose the right gym
Choose a gym that provides encouragement for beginners. At Striders, we incorporate weights as part of a comprehensive fitness plan that suits each individual’s abilities and physical attributes. We aim to motivate and inspire every client to reach their fitness goals.
Want to learn more? Get in touch with us today!
