Beating the winter blues by building confidence in the gym

Published on 29th July, 2024 at 02:05 pm

The gym can be an intimidating place for everyone, but especially for newcomers who are trying to become fitter and healthier versions of themselves. We caught up with our friends at Planet Fitness, on how you can tackle your first few gym sessions to become a seasoned gym-goer in no time.

Reading time: 3 minutes

In this article, you’ll learn:

• How to create a safe space for yourself on the gym floor
• Basic gym etiquette and must-knows for newbies
• Low-impact exercises that will guarantee that you keep moving this winter

So, it’s your first day at the gym. You’ve invested in some comfortable, nice-looking exercise gear and you’re committed to showing up because the debit order is going off at the end of the month…

It seems simple enough, except for the fact that you have no clue where to begin. No matter how prepared and well-read you are on your gym’s facilities and services, it can come as a shock to walk onto the gym floor to see other patrons working the machines like they’ve been doing this forever. Planet Fitness Personal Trainer Nomzobo Cuba recommends joining a class for your first visit to become more at ease with your surroundings. “Group classes are a great way to familiarise yourself with other people, and learn the basics. Usually, you’ll get someone to show you around when you start your contract – use that to your advantage”, says Cuba.

One such class that’s fantastic for newbies to get into full-body, low-impact training in a safe and encouraging group setting is Pilates. “Pilates is one exercise that’ll warm you up in no time. The fact that it’s usually done in a studio is a bonus”, says Cuba, as it gives you a more secluded setting to learn what you’re doing without feeling like lots of eyes are on you.

Classes are a great way to learn gym etiquette that you’ll carry with you when you move on from studio activities to equipment on the main floor. From packing mats to sanitising machinery, it’s important to keep common spaces in order. “Hygiene is very important, for your well-being, and the well-being of those around you”, notes Cuba. “Always put a sweat towel on the equipment, or at least wipe the equipment down with a paper towel and sanitiser after every use. To help your fellow gym-goers, make sure to put your equipment back in its original place.” The gym is a space for everyone to feel welcome, and we can all do our part in making everyone’s visit a pleasant one.

Another very important and often overlooked aspect of building confidence in your new gym lifestyle is to fuel your body correctly. As the adage goes, fitness is 90% diet and 10% physical exercise. It will be challenging to achieve optimal results during a workout without fuelling your body prior to hitting the gym. This leads to the body being unable to power you through exercise and having very little to take from when trying to support your recovery. “This depends on what you want to achieve and what time you work out, but eat at least an hour before your workout”, Cuba advises. “A balanced meal with protein, carbs, and fats will help you achieve the best results.”

With your newbie checklist in order, hitting the gym will be less daunting and concerns about wasting the winter months can slowly start to disappear. Your new gym gear coupled with the renewed optimism will get you through the gym blues and ensure that you find ways to keep warm away from the comfort of your blankets.

Sanlam Reality members can save up to R975 on their activation fees if they sign up at Planet Fitness from 27 July to 31 August. Visit your nearest Planet Fitness to claim this benefit, plus you can save up to 80% on your monthly gym fees. Visit sanlamreality.co.za/benefit/planet-fitness-gym/