Whether you're used to working out on your own or have never stepped foot in a gym, the idea of exercising in unison with a group of people can be a little overwhelming.
What if you stick out like a sore thumb? What if you can’t keep up? What if everyone else is too slow for you?
There are many reasons why people avoid exercising in a group, but the benefits of class sessions can’t be underestimated, so why not bite the bullet, take our tips on board and sign up to an exciting new gym class?
Here are our top five tips to ensure you get off to a great start!
1. Familiarise yourself with the class
Don’t sign up to a class based on its name alone.
Most gyms offer a concise description of what to expect from each class, so make sure you educate yourself before taking the plunge.
Remember, all classes are different and all trainers have different approaches, so just because you're a dab hand in one doesn't mean you know it all...just yet!
2. Show up early
Arriving late to a new class is a surefire way to stress yourself out, so don’t fall at the first hurdle.
By turning up with plenty of time to spare, you will give yourself enough breathing space to find a spot in the room you’re comfortable with, locate the equipment you need and have a word with the trainer if necessary.
You'll be glad of those extra ten minutes at the start, we promise.
3. Speak up
Most gym instructors will ask whether there are any newcomers, so make sure you speak up and identify yourself when the chance arises!
Everyone has to start somewhere, so don’t be embarrassed that you've yet to lift a kettlebell or lunge with a barbell.
By letting the trainer know that you’re new to the class, they’re bound to keep an eye on you and offer some top tips to ensure the class is both beneficial and enjoyable!
4. Don’t overdo it!
You may find yourself surrounded by a group of people who have been taking this class for years, so they’re bound to know the ropes and may seem like they can almost anticipate the trainer’s next word.
Don’t worry, the time will come for you, but right now you need to take it slow and steady.
You have nothing to prove to anyone, so take a deep breath and learn the ropes in your own time.
5. Be comfortable
If you’re used to working out on your own, then you may find that you can start and stop as your please to adjust irritating pieces of clothing or re-tie your trainers.
In a gym class, you don’t want to spend half your time fiddling with annoying strings or adjusting your leggings because you’ll struggle to keep up with your classmates.
Make sure your exercise ensemble is appropriate and comfortable so you can focus all your attention on learning the moves and taking advice from the trainer.
