Returning to the Gym
In the UK and the rest of the world gyms are opening up.
I think this brings about a mix of excitement and nerves for some.
You might feel torn because you're not sure if you're ready to go back.
I think when even shopping trips have been a source of anxiety, the idea of heading in to a gym can be kind of stressful.
The good news is that you don't necessarily have to with all the options we are offered for home training.
However I know for some they want to feel the sense of community their gym gave them.
So what can you do to make sure you feel prepared and ready to go?
First of all understand that everyone else is in the same boat. We've had a rough few months and for some the gym gives them the sense of relief they've been needing.
Most importantly, pay attention to the recommendations from that specific gym upon entering eg social distancing, cleaning equipment and mask wearing and you will be able to enjoy your session.
Hygiene aside, here are some other tips I recommend so that you can feel awesome in your session.
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• Walk in with a plan, have a program set and know exactly what equipment you will be using. There will be a lot of new rules to think about so if you can eliminate some of the decisions by having a set program then you're cutting down on a lot of wasted time. Saving time will be of importance should your gym have hour long time slots to book in.
• Ask for help if you need it. Coaches are there to help and are usually really friendly. Plus we've all been on a hiatus so I imagine instructors will be like excitable puppies ready to help 😂
• Have a good playlist. Music 100% can help you keep the momentum while training and be less aware of what else is going on.
• Self film exercises to correct form or get a second opinion from someone qualified. This is a game changer for most people. People usually know what looks correct but when it comes to actually doing it sometimes filming can help you see where you’re going wrong. I know sometimes it can feel embarrassing filming yourself like people will think you're the next wannabe social media sensation but seriously everyone does it these days.
• Get a workout buddy. This can really help with accountability if you’re struggling to get your sessions in and also make the process more enjoyable. While this is somewhat more tricky now (hi 1.5 metres) you can still make appointments to train together but in different areas of the gym for accountability.
• Wear something you feel comfortable in. No matter what that may be. I used to like to make an effort with what I wore in the gym however now it’s a different story 😂. This is very individual to you however ideally don’t compromise comfort for fashion. Personally when I decided to stop making such an effort in the gym, the more I got out of my sessions. It puts me in the mindset of being there to work rather than look aesthetically pleasing. But that's just me.
• Stop caring so much about what other people think. This is a MASSIVE one. I'd like to carry on preaching that no one cares what you're doing but I have been given so much unsolicited advice on my lifting technique in my time, my experiences beg to differ! My best advice is to be so in to your own training that you have no time to think about what others are doing or saying. If anyone starts giving you form feedback when you haven't asked for it, kindly tell them you would prefer to consult your coach about such matters
I hope this helps you have an awesome re entry to the gym! You guys deserve this after the long wait - enjoy.
If you need any further assistance with the above like form checking or setting up a program then shoot me a message 👍🏼😊