Starting your fitness journey can be an overwhelming process. From making sure you know what you are doing to finding a gym that is right for you. As for finding the right gym for you, make sure you are choosing one that matches your personality. Finding the right gym for you will help you feel at ease while you are there when starting your fitness journey. The more comfortable you feel at the gym, the more you will be confident in going. As for the fitness part, let’s go into a little further detail to make you feel confident in starting your fitness journey.
Cardio
Cardio can be done in many ways whether it be the stationary bike, treadmill, stairclimber, elliptical or even some group classes the gym may offer. When you perform cardio workouts make sure to change things up from time to time. If you are on the treadmill or elliptical make sure to change the intensity levels during the workout, going from high intensity to low and back to high. The next time you do a cardio workout you can then find a base and stay at your base line for an extended distance. The important part of cardio though is that you perform moderate intensity for 30 minutes 5 times a week.
Strength Training
For many, strength training can seem like a daunting task. If you are worried about form, making sure you’re safe and doing it right, don’t be afraid to ask the trainer to show you some things. They are there to help you and will show you free weights as well as machines for you to use. You may even find that you enjoy working 1-on-1 with a personal trainer. If you are going to strength train on your own, work out the major muscle groups such as the chest, back, legs, and arms. Oh, and don’t forget your abs. When you start your journey, make sure you perform strength training two non-consecutive days a week targeting each of the muscle groups for 1 set of 8-12 repetitions.
Written by GUADS staff member Patrick with contributions from www.acsm.org
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