The Gym Basics for Beginners
When starting out, the gym can often be an intimidating atmosphere for beginners. Chances are, if you have never been you may not know how frequently one should go, some good basic exercises, and what to bring. That is why in today’s blog we are going to cover the basics of the gym for beginners! Even if you are not a beginner, we encourage you to read along, or check our socials for local information. As usual, if you read this blog, implement these practices into your own life, or want to share your health and fitness journey with us please follow and tag us on our social media platforms. You can find us on Facebook by searching UW-Whitewater Rec Sports or follow us on Twitter and Instagram @RecSports_UWW.
The Basics of the Gym for beginners
Frequency
● When starting out, I recommend gym beginners to go to the gym about 1-3 times a week. This allows for your body to adapt and adjust to a new routine. This also reduces the build up of lactic acid. Start at low weights if you are lifting and increase as needed.
Basic Exercises
● Of course, for a gym beginner, I always recommend starting off with cardio. This will get you warmed up and ready for a lift, if you choose to do one. For lifting, I encourage beginners to start off with dumbbells. These are easily accessible in almost any gym and they can be incorporated into almost any type of workout, legs, glutes, arms, etc. Try out some basic arm and leg exercises such as squats, chest presses, bicep curls, split squats, and lunges.
What to Bring?
● This one is pretty simple. The most important thing to bring to the gym is of
course your water bottle. If I forget my water bottle at the gym I simply cannot workout. This is an essential for health purposes. You also should have your phone handy as it can help you get pumped up by listening to music, or time your workouts. Speaking of music, you always want to remember to bring headphones. I find almost everyone in the gym is listening to something. This will help pass the time and keep you focused.
As always, I hope you enjoyed reading this blog. Starting out in the gym can be intimidating for most. However, remember that everyone starts somewhere. Whether you are just getting started today or have been an avid gym goer for 10+ years, please remember…
Do not get discouraged,
Cora Shircel