Getting started at the gym can be a little intimidating, especially if you haven’t been a regular at working out before. While most gyms are beginner friendly and have some equipment that is intuitive to use, it is important to make sure that you don’t make some basic mistakes that can really set your fitness journey back.
Working Out Too Hard
If you watch any workout videos or pay attention to other people in the gym, you may feel like you have to keep going until you are burnt out and barely able to walk out of the gym. But if this is how you start working out as a beginner, there is a high likelihood that you will either injure yourself or burn out so badly that you stop going because you feel like you can’t get anything done.
Working out is about exercising your body; you need to build up your endurance and strength. Rather than trying the same workouts as your hardcore gym buddies, start with a beginner level. This will help you level up naturally without feeling like you are a failure.
Not Drinking Enough Water
Working out raises both your heart rate and your body temperature. To compensate for this, you will get sweaty, which is the body’s natural way of cooling down. While everyone sweats a little differently, the loss of fluids can leave you dehydrated and weak if you aren’t drinking water.
You need to be drinking not just during your workout, but all day long so your body is in good condition for your workout. Being hydrated also comes with other benefits. Fluoridated water can help strengthen your enamel and protect your teeth. Proper hydration also increases the health of your skin and reduces the number of headaches you get.
Not Asking for Help
Just like any other new thing you are trying, you will run into things you don’t know how to do. Rather than pushing through or skipping that exercise, you should ask for help! It may seem a little taboo to ask people for help when they are in the middle of a workout, but most people are happy to help if you ask nicely and let them finish what they are actively working on. If you are uncomfortable approaching strangers, you could also ask the gym employees to help you figure things out. Not only is this a great way to become part of the gym committee, but it also means that your form will be good and you are less likely to hurt yourself.
Don’t let what you don’t know scare you off from starting your fitness journey at the gym. There are plenty of resources out there to help you stay healthy and injury-free while working towards your fitness goals. Just remember that it is okay to be a beginner and that this is going to be a great learning experience.
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