How to Get the Most Out of a Gym Membership
- 1). Create a schedule and stick to it. Select the best time of day for your workout and try not to deviate from it for 30 days. If possible, avoid going to the gym during their peak times.
- 2). Bring your friends. Ask for free guest passes and invite a friend to join you. When you involve another person, you will be less likely to miss a workout. If your friend decides to join the gym, you may also qualify for an additional free month's membership or other incentive.
- 3). Use the gym facilities. Do not limit yourself to the exercise equipment and the showers. Most fitness centers offer a wide range of programs for their members. Try out the different classes: yoga, stability ball or kickboxing. Consider hiring a trainer for a few sessions. If there is a nutritionist on staff, meet with her to discuss your dietary needs.
- 4). Track the numbers. Go beyond weighing yourself and measuring your body parts. Use a simple worksheet to record the number of push-ups and sit-ups, amount of time spent on the treadmill or elliptical trainer and decreases in body fat. As you improve your speed and endurance , you will feel more motivated to continue the workouts.
- 5). Track your attendance. At the beginning of each month, set a realistic goal for yourself. For example, you may decide on 15 workout sessions a month. When you return from each session, place a motivational sticker on the calendar day. If you reach or go beyond your original goal, reward yourself with a new outfit or social outing.
- 6). Make allowances for illness, working overtime and family crises. If you take a few days or weeks off, get back to your routine as soon as possible. Do not feel that you must complete a full workout each time you go to the gym: Even a short workout of 20 minutes will help get you back on the exercise bandwagon.
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