Here we are, almost 2 weeks into the new year. Hello 2014!!! Going to the gym over this past week and a half has inspired me to write this post. Thank you to all the new year's resolutioners for the inspiration! But honestly, January is my least favorite time to be a fitness fanatic, because the gym is crawling with a*holes who have no idea what they are doing. Now I am all for setting a New Year's resolution for a healthier you, but PUHLEASE do some research before making a fool out of yourself in front of avid gym goers who actually already hate you for taking up valuable space at the gym. Lucky for my New Year's resolution readers this is a "how to" guide for you that will save you all the newbie embarrassment…….
1) Wear GYM clothes to the gym!! This one seems like a gimme, but after what I saw this week it apparently is not. I would especially like to thank the man in jorts & the man in khaki shorts for this inspiration! Inappropriate gym clothing includes but is NOT limited to the following: jorts (jean shorts for my non-hip readers), dress shoes, dress slacks (yes slacks!), blouses or button down business shirts, belts, etc. If you have no gym attire at least wear sweatpants, surely everyone has sweats. Do check that they are not see through, hint to the lady on the elliptical next to me yesterday.
2) Do you research on the work out you are trying to begin. This one is inspired by the man wearing flippers to doggy paddle and the woman doing cross lunges (at least I think that's what they were, to me it looked like repetitive curtseying meets Sally O'Mally's famous "I'm 50" kicks). If you want to attend a certain class look it up, maybe youtube the moves and practice a little at home. Also, know what intensity you are getting into so you can be prepared for rest breaks and bring enough water.
3) Know your gym's policies. This especially applies to cleaning up after yourself. My gym has signs EVERYWHERE to wipe down machines with a spray bottle and towel after you are finished, however I have encountered several new gym goers sweating all over the machine and then just leaving it! GROSS. Also be familiar with other gym policies like hours, payment options, lockers, and parking.
4) ASK. If you are new to the gym don't be afraid to ask a gym attendant or an instructor any questions about equipment or policies. Trust me if you don't ask and you end up wandering around or using something wrong you will pay for it later, or just look like an idiot. Ask once and then you never need to ask again and then you too can share in the laughter when you spot newbies at the gym!
