If you have never joined a gym — decide what you wish to do before doing so. What is your motivation?
This one question could cover a great deal: I wish to lose weight. I have a wedding to attend. I am not happy with my fitness or body shape. I cannot keep up with my children. I wish to get stronger and more flexible. I have an event coming up and want guidance.
The Negatives
Most people walk through this door first. I am too old. I do not need a gym — I am happy as I am. I do not wish to build muscles. My friends think I am nuts for considering it. It is too expensive. Too far to go. I would feel stupid as I do not know what to do. It is a place for those who only lift heavy weights and growl. People will look at me and laugh. I have no one to go with. I cannot find the time.
You will not be the only one who has had these thoughts — we all do, both male and female, for the first time.
"The longest journey is the first step." Like everyone else who has been daunted by this commitment — hopefully it will be a change of life for you in every sense.
For a woman, it is very daunting walking through the doors of any fitness club for the first time. Men are more blasé. But remember — you are doing this for your benefit, and no one else's.
Your First Day
On your first day, if at all possible, go when the club is quiet and not crowded. Not knowing what to do in this environment is very natural, and very understandable.
When signing up, you will normally be asked: "Would you like an induction?" Not always — but if not offered, find a manager and ask. They will usually pair you with a fitness coach who will show you around the club and the equipment. You may even have time to try some of it.
Do not expect too much from the induction. It will be something like — "this rubber round thing is called a Ball." The equipment descriptions will mean very little to you at this stage. Start with the treadmill. It is very easy to use, and you can observe what others are doing at a comfortable pace.
Stay Away from Classes — For Now
Initially, stay away from classes. The instructor does not always have time to correct your interpretation of the exercise you have been asked to do. And trying to keep up, without yet knowing what you are doing, is unfortunately a reliable route to injury.
This is one of the main reasons new members leave — they feel intimidated. Do not let that be your story.
You are a baby learning to crawl — not walk.
There is no shame in that. Every person in that gym started exactly where you are now. The ones who stayed are simply the ones who gave themselves permission to begin slowly.