Feeling confident and understanding of what to do in the gym is a great step in the right direction. These are some useful tips and guides of what to do if you are nervous about joining the gym for the first time.

1.        Find your own gym goals and arrive with a plan

-Really have a deep think in what you want to achieve and how its possible

-Look into YouTube videos of exercises you want to do, so you feel more confident

-Write a plan of 5 – 8 different exercises and how many reps and sets you should perform

2.        Go with a friend

-Going with a friend can take a lot of the stress away of feeling insecure

-It can be great fun

3.        Book an Induction

-Having an induction of a gym is a good way to get expert knowledge from a professional.

-It will show you the layout of the gym and what they have to offer.

4.        Feel more confident joining a class

-Joining a class takes away the feeling of not knowing what to do

-Is usually a cheaper choice than a personal trainer

-Fun to do with music and can still go and your own intensity

-Make likeminded friends

5.        Going to the gym in off peaks hours

-This can allow you to get the equipment you want (especially if you don’t know alternative exercises for muscle groups)

-Don’t feel so insecure with so many other people there.

-To find out just call the gym, they will always be happy to let you know

6.        Listen to something (music/podcast)

-This can stimulate you and motivate you in sets

-Blocks out whats going on around you

7.        Don’t beat yourself up if you miss a session

-Sometimes it happens, but that’s life and it will happen

-But make sure you reset and keep on going 

8.        Ask for help

-Huge common misconception is that other people in the gym are scary but this far from the truth

-They know what they are doing, so feel free to ask and I can promise you they will help.

9.        If you don’t like something, change it

-If something is not enjoyable don’t keep doing it.

-Find different exercises, different classes. Find something that makes you happy in the gym.

10.  Find a routine that you enjoy

-Don’t think you have to work out for hours or everyday

-Find an easy plan in your day-to-day life that is easy to fit in

-Start with just 45 minutes to an hour per session

-And you only need to do 2-3 days a week to start making progress

11.  Don’t overthink supplements and latest fads

-Keep it simple

-Eat a well-balanced diet

-Stay hydrated

-Sleep 7/8 a hour a night

12.  You won’t always feel motivated

-And that is more than okay

-No one does

-Just remember, why you started this journey

13.  Listen to your body

-If you are tired, take that rest day

-If you are ill, take that rest day

-If you are sore, take that rest day

-Stay hydrated, eat well, sleep properly

14.  Lifting weights won’t make you less feminine

-It won’t make you bulky

-Its empowering

-It’s a great way to sculpt your body to what you want

15.   People aren’t judging or watching you

-Everyone is there to do the same as you

-Everyone feels like that, but it’s not the truth

-People are far more focussed on what they are doing themselves

16.  Wear something you feel confident and comfortable in

-This will make you feel better and able to focus more on your workout

-Won’t be focusing on if it’s not right for you or if you feel good

17.  Finally, Start with the basics

-Start on a treadmill, look around the gym, become familiar

-Do exercises you do know and perform them