How to join a gym!

Day 2: Accomplish your New Years resolutions
Join a gym!

 

Yesterday you decided this is the year I get healthy, this is the year I workout. Awesome! But where are you starting, do you want to workout out at home or would you rather join a gym/studio. We'll start with how to decide what gym/studio to join, if that's the path you choose.

 

 

Steps to pick a perfect gym:

• Budget: First decide what your budget is for this, the most important investment you will ever make is in your health. With that said you still don't want to bankrupt your self, while your deciding what gym to join keep that budget in mind but be a little flexible. A lot of gyms this time of year offer deals and packages for the new year so look out for that.
• Distance: One of the biggest reasons people don't accomplish there goals is lack of time. If its taking you an hour to get to the gym everyday then your adding an extra restriction on yourself.  Try to find gyms close to your home, if you work at the same place at least 5days a week find a gym close to your job so you can go before or after work. Don't let yourself have the option to say the gym is to far.
• Variety: Do not allow yourself to get bored. Make sure the gym has cardio equipment, and variety of strength training equipment that way there is always something new for you to try. If you like classes view the class schedule make sure there is classes you like at times you can take them.

 

Great you joined a gym! Now where the heck do you start!:

 

• Personal Trainers: I can't stress this enough. Most gyms offer a free first session and I urge you to take advantage of that. If you are coming from the completely blank slate of not knowing where you are physical and/or you don't know basic form for exercises please use the trainers. As someone who wants to be a trainer and knows many trainers I can assure you we do this because we love to help you and we love to see you succeed. I know this isn't the most budget friendly thing but it is so worth it. When you are deciding on a gym include the personal training into your budget because this could literally be the key to your success this year. 
• Classes: Take classes don't be afraid to try something new. The first month take 1 or 2classes a week in addition to strength training/cardio until you find something you want to go to every week. If you find 1 class you dedicate yourself to that's already a day or two your going to the gym.
• Research: Research your goals. If your training for  a marathon research it. If you have some background with fitness use resources like bodybuilding.com to find new workout plans or get ideas to build your own. There is unlimited knowledge out there at your disposable use it!