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POV: You’re A Newbie At The Gym And Don’t Know What Is Going On, A Beginners Guide To Help You Feel Comfortable In The Gym

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at DCU chapter.

Maybe you’re a gym virgin, perhaps you’ve had a bad experience at the gym or maybe you’re just a lazy couch potato person who hates everything but their bed and Netflix. I think many of us hate the gym for different reasons, but Hot Girl Winter is calling and it’s time to get the preparation into full swing. 

Unfortunately, it’s impossible to get fit from watching Netflix in bed- hopefully someday though! So in order to feel the best version of you, I must talk about the dreaded G-word. The Gym! 

The thought of the gym is absolutely daunting, from the massive awkward machines to the wannabe Dwayne Johnsons lifting five times your weight. There’s nothing worse right? Wrong! Of course it’s not going to be easy but if it doesn’t challenge you then it doesn’t change you. So, how can you feel more comfortable in the gym? 

Cute workout gear is essential. If you look good then you’ll feel good. Sweaty Betty and Lululemon have been killing it with their gym sets recently. Some cheaper alternatives can be found in Penneys.

There’s no better feeling than checking yourself out in the mirror in a sexy gym set while listening to a killer playlist. Imagine you’re on the treadmill, ‘Toxic’ by Britney Spears is playing in your headphones, the fan is blowing your hair. You’re feeling like Adriana Lima on the 2005 Victoria Secret runway. Music will make you feel your most confident self, so pick songs that will motivate you. May I suggest Demi Lovato’s, ‘Confident’.

Do your research! Fitness content creators are the way to go. Some of the queens of the fitness industry are Pamela Reif, Yoga with Adrienne and Rachel Brathen. They share the best workouts and explain the ins and outs of the gym world. It’s also beneficial to follow some of their home workout videos before heading into the gym. Not only does it get the muscles used to movement it also means you’re not a complete beginner when you go to the gym for the first time. 

You should also set realistic goals. Don’t expect to have a six pack in the first week. Of course, with consistency you will see your results. Consistency is key in the gym. Aim to go to the gym at least three times a week for the first while. 

It’s very important to know your limits. Going overboard on the weights in the first few weeks isn’t going to help you, it’s going to make you tired and really, really sore. Changing up your gym routine every so often will prevent you from becoming bored in the gym and will keep you motivated.

At the end of the day, this is for you and nobody else. You are doing this to improve you. Don’t feel intimidated by others, they are so focused on themselves that they’ll pay no attention to you. Going to the gym will be one of the best decisions that you will ever make. Not only will it help with your mental and physical health but it’s also helping future you have a healthier life too. 

It’s important to be kind to yourself- pressure is for tires, not for Queens!

Communications student at DCU. Carrie Bradshaw wannabe, fashion lover and future rich aunt.