If you are about to start using the gym then you have made a smart decision which will help you to get a better body, feel healthier and ensure that you have much more energy throughout the day. In order to get the most out of the gym, you need to really understand what you are doing as many newcomers can find themselves in difficulties with the gym equipment and apparatus which can actually lead to injuries, the polar opposite of what you are actually trying to achieve.
Before you get started at the gym, here are some tips on how you can use it in the best possible way, and avoid the risk of any injuries.
Take The Tour
When you initially join the gym, most fitness centers will offer you an induction which includes a tour of the premises and a guide on how to use the machines. Many people think that they already know ho two use the equipment in the gym and decline this offer of a guided tour. Even if you think that you already know all there is to know about the machines in the gym, taking the tour can help you to fill in any gaps which you have and ensure that you actually do understand how to use the equipment, you may be surprised.
Take it Easy
Most people who suffer injuries at the gym, do so because they are trying to do too much, too soon. This can certainly be tempting when you are trying to get a better body but it is important that you understand that this is very much a process and you need to respect each level of it, and not jump the gun. Leave bravado behind when you are entering the gym and don’t try to compete with others who are using the machines and equipment, if you don’t, you could easily run the risk of suffering an injury.
Stretching
Stretching may not be the most exciting of activities but if you want to ensure that you are doing all that you can to avoid an injury, stretching is absolutely necessary. When you stretch your body’s muscles, you are opening them up and making sure that they lose their tightness before you put them through their paces. You should be dedicating at least 20 minutes before your exercise to stretching so that you can warm up and loosen your muscles and avoid pulling them or even tearing them during your exercise.
Listening to Your Body
There is a great difference between pushing your body to the limits in order to have the best workout possible, and pushing your body so far that you cause damage. It is important therefore that you listen to your body when you are exercising so that you can identify where your limits are. Your body will most definitely let you know when you have taken it too far and as soon as you feel the first sign of pain or discomfort, you should stop what you are doing.
Make sure that you follow these steps and stay safe inside the gym, the goal is to improve your body, not to damage it.
