1. Dress Appropriately

Not everyone can afford workout gear but one thing you should know during your first trip to the gym is that you need to dress appropriately even if it means a cotton tee and gym shorts. Be prepared to take off your layers. With that being said, make sure you have the right bra on so you’ll feel comfortable while working out but you won’t feel uncomfortable working out without a sweater. Second, wear something thin or breathable and avoid thick clothing such as fleece lined sweat pants or polyester yoga pants. Finally, try to avoid wearing sneakers, instead invest in a pair of runners.

2. Bring a Water Bottle

Yes, there are drinking fountains at the gym but you’ll be getting thirsty at the gym frequently and be in need of constant hydration. Bring a water bottle because it’s a lot more convenient than having to run to the fountain every few minutes. Plus, water bottles are allowed on the floor and many machines like the treadmill have water bottle holders so you don’t have to worry about holding your bottle during your workout.

3. Do a Tour

New members usually get a tour of the facility upon signing up. This is a great way to learn about what amenities are available to you. Furthermore, if you haven’t signed up to a gym yet and are on the market, feel free to walk in to nearby gyms and ask for a tour. This is a great way to eliminate gyms that don’t offer enough services or equipment to your liking.

4. Ask for Help

If it’s your first time at the gym you will most likely not be familiar with how a lot of the equipment works. Don’t be embarrassed or skip it! Instead, ask a trainer to help you become more comfortable with the equipment! After all, you’re a paying member plus the trainers are there specifically to help the patrons. Don’t be intimidated to approach a trainer with any questions you may have.

5. Don’t Overdo It

If you’re going to the gym for the first time, your exercise skill level, endurance or energy won’t be as high as someone who has being to the gym for a couple months. Don’t feel the need to compete with anyone or compare yourself to other members. Instead, work out to the best of your ability but as soon as you start to feel exhausted or sluggish, it’s time to call it a day and go home!

6. Warm up

Many gyms have a warm up room or a mat where you can warm up before using the equipment. Take a couple minutes before beginning your workout to do some stretches and get your heart rate up a little. Warming up will help to get your blood flowing and help you feel less sluggish or lazy before a workout. Plus, warming up will also help with the elasticity of your muscles helping you to have better control of your body and the equipment.

7. Go with a Friend

Some gyms offer a 2-for-1 deal or a free one week trial. If that’s the case with your gym, then take a friend with you. You’ll feel less intimated by the equipment if you have a friend you can laugh it off with. Plus, having company with you will make the time go by faster and make your experience at the gym more enjoyable.

The most important thing you should know when you go to the gym is that every gym has its own set of rules. Make sure you respect the rules, the equipment and the other members of the gym. What are some other things people should know for their first trip to the gym?