Nyack NY has an awesome fitness scene, so here’s what first-time gym goers should keep in mind when choosing a new workout community!
So, you’ve decided to start going to the gym and begin a new fitness journey—that’s awesome!
Whether your goals are to get healthier, stronger, lose weight or just have fun, it’s normal to feel a bit intimidated when you’re just getting started and stepping into a new gym for the first time.
But here at The Rising Legends Academy of Fitness, we pride ourselves on providing a welcoming environment for fitness enthusiasts of all ability levels. Our coaches are here to support first-time gym goers in Nyack NY, and that’s why we’re providing this list of essential tips to help you while you’re choosing a new workout community.
So, check out the below sections to see what you should keep in mind when you’re finding your footing toward your health and fitness goals!
1. Showing Up To The Gym Prepared
The first thing you’ll need to keep in mind as a new gym goer is how to be prepared for success during each workout session. That’s why you’ll want to keep the following prep steps in mind:
- Wearing Comfortable Clothes: Be sure to wear clothes that you can move freely in. Some people like synthetic materials because they’re breathable and moisture-wicking, and others like cotton for softness. We say that you should wear whatever makes you feel good, but don’t forget about wearing comfortable, supportive shoes as well.
- Bring Your Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key for every workout session, and although most gyms will provide water fountains, it’s typically best to bring your own water bottle so you’re always ready for each sip. Our recommendation is to use a water bottle with a push-pull cap, because these caps are more convenient and help you avoid fiddling with pesky lids!
- Bring A Combination Lock: A lot of gyms in Nyack offer lockers for personal items, and although most workout communities are 100% safe from theft, it’s always best to err on the side of caution by bringing a combination lock. Combination locks are usually best, because they don’t require a key that you could potentially misplace!
- Pack Clean Clothes & A Towel: A lot of people like to shower after working out and not all workout facilities offer towels, so you might want to bring a towel and fresh clothes so you can leave each gym session feeling fully revitalized!
2. Requesting A Guided Gym Tour
Every gym has its own unique equipment, processes and layout.
It can be tough for newcomers to know exactly where everything is and how to use certain pieces of equipment, which is why it’s a good idea to request a guided gym tour so you can get better acquainted with the specifics of a new facility.
3. Setting Realistic Fitness Journey Goals
You’ll also want to think about your overall fitness goals before you start diving into weightlifting and workout routines. Do you want to build strength? Are you more interested in looking and feeling your best? Do you want to lose weight?
Setting clear and realistic fitness journey goals is essential for keeping you motivated and giving you something to look forward to while you’re pushing yourself to show up to the gym on a daily basis.
And don’t worry, our personal trainers are here to help when it comes to setting realistic goals that are specifically suited for your unique needs, and we’ll be sure to set you up on a fitness roadmap and track your progress during each workout.
4. Learning Gym Etiquette
Gym spaces are shared, so it’s important to remember how a little etiquette goes a long way toward making your fellow gym-goers’ experience slightly more enjoyable.
There are a few gym etiquette basics that all beginners need to keep in mind, including:
- Respecting Personal Space: Everyone needs an adequate amount of room for completing specific exercises, and this is particularly the case when they’re deep into their routine and feeling the burn.
- Sharing Gym Equipment: Waiting to use certain weights or machines? It’s ok to ask someone how much longer they’ll be using something you’re waiting on, and don’t forget to be mindful of others while you’re using popular equipment.
- Cleaning Up After Yourself: You should always wipe down benches and workout equipment after using them, because this helps to keep the gym hygienic and fresh—which is a big part of exercising in a public space.
You’ll quickly find out how everyone here in the Rising Legends community is respectful, kind, and happy to share our beautiful facility’s space. And when you follow these basic etiquette tips, you’ll undoubtedly feel right at home!
5. Understanding Effective & Safe Gym Equipment Usage
It’s no secret how overwhelming it can initially feel when you’re not quite sure how to use complex gym equipment, so just remember that our coaches are here to help you and that you’ll get the hang of it in no time.
Here are a few beginner tips to keep you safe while you’re building up your gym equipment confidence:
- Always Start With The Fundamentals: Be sure to stick with basic exercises when you’re just getting started with your new fitness routine. This includes things like lunges, squats, pushups and cardio. These are simple workouts that just so happen to be incredibly effective!
- Your Primary Focus Should Be Form: Learning proper workout form with various gym equipment will go a long way to help you achieve faster results and avoid potential injuries. And if you’re not sure what your form should be with certain pieces of equipment, reach out to our staff and we’ll help you out.
- Ask For Help: Never hesitate to ask for help when you’re not quite sure how to use gym equipment. Our personal trainers and fitness coaches are knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to support you and your workout sessions.
- Pace Yourself: There’s no rush to go all-in with your new workout routine, so you’ll be better off starting with light weights and always listening to your body as you slowly but surely ease your way into harder exercises.
And with our team of experts here to guide you, you’ll quickly master gym equipment!
6. Stay Kind To Yourself & Prioritize Recovery
It’s important to practice self-care throughout the entirety of your fitness journey, and this is especially the case when you’re just getting started.
The odds are that you’re going to feel a bit stiff or sore after your first workout sessions, so you’ll want to do some stretching before bed and light jogging or walking during your recovery days.
Be sure to prioritize your workout recovery and come back to see us when your body feels fully ready!
Rising Legends Supports First-Time Gym Goers In The Nyack NY Area!
Are you ready to begin your new fitness journey and reach new health goals? If you live in the Nyack NY area, come into our facility and meet us here at Rising Legends to learn more about how we can set you up on a successful path toward incredible results.
We’re very proud to be a beginner-friendly gym, and we welcome all fitness enthusiasts into our supportive and friendly community.
We look forward to seeing you at the gym!