Yes, yes I know and understand. A new year can be exciting and refreshing. However, if you're a regular gym rat, fitness buff, or are at the gym religiously, it can be frustrating. Your own routine can be interrupting by new folks hogging the machines, weights and other equipment. There are all sorts of people trying to start anew and get fit for the New Year. Some stick it out, many give up after a month or two.
One reason people throw in the towel so quickly is that they are newbies, or rookies to working out. They know they need to get healthy; they just need the proper encouragement and motivation. A NYE resolution may have brought them there. However, how do you keep this new member from becoming a Holiday Hopper (only showing at the first of the year and just before the summer to tone up for vacation season.)? Here are some suggestions I have. It's been decades since I was a newbie but I'm always willing to help anyone trying to lead a healthy lifestyle.
1. Patience.
This is for both rookies and veterans alike. Anyone new to working out must realize that real results will not come overnight. You will also be really tired and sore at first but this will eventually go away. Also, veterans, please make them feel welcome and don't be the gym police. Kindly remind them if they are taking too long on a machine or a piece of equipment. Answer any questions they have and even ask them if they would like to workout in some sets with you. If they decline, that's fine. A warm personality can go a long way.
2. Seeking other help
The key word here is still encourage. Encourage them to work out with you if they desire. Better yet, get them in a class, bootcamp, or get them to try a session with a trainer. Many gyms offer free 30 minute personal training sessions. This can help the gym neo get some motivation and drive to keep trucking. The classes are definitely good for that as you are working out with folks of all fitness types and walks of life. Many personal bonds can be formed as well.
3. Have them set goals, short and long terms.
Their goal may be to lose 50 pounds. Well, how about helping them lose one pound at a time? Also, suggest a routine that includes slowly substituting unhealthy foods for healthier ones. It's all about baby steps. When achieving a fitness goal, slower is often better. It speeds the metabolism up and you have smaller goals and milestones. These all build up to the big picture.
4. Social media
It's hard to forget Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and the others. Suggest that they connect with you and/or others that are like minded throught fitness groups. You can share healthy recipes, motivate and cheer each other on when someone is making progress.
The key is to make newbies comfortable and keep them excited. This is beyond the regular staff. The members can also help. It is ultimately up to the individual. However, with a kind push, that new member can potentially go further. They then realize fitness is a lifestyle and a commitment. They will not want to miss a workout, and will think twice about their snacking choices.
So next time you see a newbie infering with your workout, try offering a helping hand, rather than a scoff or a side eye. It can go a long way. They may not listen, but it doesn't hurt to try. The gym should be like a family or a village, where everyone is encouraging each other. It starts with one person at a time.
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