Newswise — In early January, couch potatoes across the country will be walking into fitness centers, resolving to get fit in 2010. These newbies will have a lot more success achieving their goals if they know what to ask, look for, and do on that first visit.
Adrian Shepard, assistant director of recreation-fitness for Butler University, suggests these
“Top 10 Things to Consider on Your First Day at a Fitness Center”
1. Familiarize yourself with the center’s layout (employee staffing matrix, employee stations, locker rooms, towels, restrooms, water fountains, fitness equipment).
2. Ask center employee’s what services are offered (massage therapy, group fitness, personal training). What’s free and what’s fee-based?
3. Sign-up for a fitness equipment orientation to learn how cardio, strength and other equipment works.
4. Review center guidelines re: attire, use of electronics and refreshments, time limits and/or sign-ups for equipment, etc.
5. If offered, schedule a fitness assessment. Knowing your current level of physical fitness will help you establish goals and evaluate future progress.
6. Learn your center’s traffic patterns and peak usage hours. Notice what equipment is being used when you visit. Working out during a facility’s less busy hours can save you time and stress.
7. Understand that people aren’t going to judge you. While it’s natural to feel nervous exercising in front of others for the first time, the person next to you probably isn’t paying attention to you; they’re focused on their own exercise. Concentrate on your own form, breathing and the muscles the exercise targets.
8. Don’t overdo it. Gradually work your way into exercising, especially if you have been physically inactive for some time or are recovering from an injury. You won’t see results overnight. Being physically active and healthy is a lifelong journey.
9. Find a workout buddy to help stay motivated. Your facility might offer free trial passes for your friends or even an exercise buddy service.
10. Realize that fitness won’t make time for you. You must make time for fitness. What are your goals? How many days per week are you planning to visit the facility and for how long?
“Fitness center employees are there to help you,” Shepard said, “But you’ll sometimes need to initiate the conversation and let them know that you have some questions or need some advice.
“Most importantly, have fun getting fit.”
About Adrian ShepardA certified personal trainer, Adrian Shepard directs group fitness programs and personal training at Butler University’s Health and Recreation Complex, serving 4000 students, employees, alumni and their families. As a lead presenter at 2008 National Intramural and Recreational Sports Association Conference & Exposition, Shepard discussed how fitness facility staff can identify and address unhealthy behaviors in clients, including over-exercising and disordered eating. He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Exercise & Sport Science from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
To find other Butler University experts, visit www.butler.edu/experts.
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