Mix Up Your Routine
When it comes to lifting weights, for many women it can be intimidating looking at a room full of machines and free weights in the gym. Those using the machines seem to move with confidence from free weights to machine as if they were born to be there 24/7.
The truth is lifting weights is more important than cardio as women get older – the reasons being:
- Women start losing muscle mass by the late 30’s and this generally results in greater weight gain.
- Lifting weights regularly is a more effective weight loss method than cardio alone.
- Lifting weights reduces your risk of osteoporosis by promoting stronger bones and muscles.
- Lifting weights produces a stronger body, and with it, a more confident woman.
If you find yourself a little intimidated by the weights room at your local gym, then try these effective tips.
1. Workout With a Friend
Going to the gym with a friend and working out with them can be a very reassuring way of introducing yourself to the various machines and different weights.
It doesn’t matter whether or not your friend is an experienced exerciser, the room will appear less scary and you may even share a joke or two along the way!
Having a training buddy there with you holds you accountable to your exercise, making the time spent at the gym more motivating and effective.
2. Hire a Personal Trainer
Most gyms are happy to demonstrate the weight machines to members, but sometimes this is not always possible especially at peak times i.e. late afternoons
It is money well spent when you hire a personal trainer. Why? –
- A personal trainer will show you how to use the machines and weights safely and more effectively than if you went it alone and second-guessed it.
- A personal trainer will most likely devise a program for you to follow making your time at the gym more results driven.
- All this adds up to a more effective workout in the weights room, and that equates to feeling more comfortable and confident.
3. Have a Workout Plan
Put simply, you are wasting your time, money and energy going to the gym without a proper plan of action.
It’s a common scenario to see women wander aimlessly around the room doing a set here and a set there of lifting light weights, to then make a quick escape to their safety net – the cardio room. This behaviour results in no fitness gains what so ever. However, if you have a plan (aka a workout program) the guesswork goes out the door and certainty enters to give you a thoroughly beneficial workout. You will leave the gym feeling energized and motivated to continue with your healthy goals.
4. Wear Comfortable Exercise Clothing
This may appear obvious, but all too often women will exercise in ill-fitting shoes, or not wear a proper sports bra. If your shoes are well worn but are comfortable, then wear them at the gym.
You don’t have an exercise bra? Then get yourself one.
Being comfortable in your own clothing makes the gym visit more enjoyable for you.
Make sure your clothing covers all those areas of the body you don’t want others to see. If this means wearing a loose fitting t-shirt, or three-quarter pants, then so be it. As long as you are comfortable and have ease of movement when exercising, your gym visit will be enjoyable and rewarding.
The next time you venture to the local gym, try using one or several of these tips and soon you will be feeling more confident and reassured when using the weights.