The gyms here are filling back up again and I am all for it.
On Wednesday evening, I clocked in at the gym and was pleasantly surprised at the number of people who have returned for their sweat sessions since the onset of the pandemic.
I’m guessing that since everyone attending a gym or fitness centre is required to have at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine, it has created a greater sense of safety for gym goers, more so the new gym buffs.
Exercise is hugely beneficial to our overall health and so it is very important for all of us to find a way to exercise safely and with confidence during the pandemic.
Exercise will help us to keep our blood pressure down, and can help improve our
mood, energy level, and even help us sleep better. In these stressful times, these things may matter now more than ever.
Back to the newbies…I’ve seen quite a few new faces and here is a bit of advice if you are new to the gym.
Don’t stare or be creepy. This is usually a guy problem. Yes, there are women walking around with amazing bodies wearing shorts and tight leggings, but don’t do that creepy stare thing from across the room. If anything, have the courage to say hi. By the way, women get creepy too. Trust me.
Don’t waste your time. Find a good personal trainer. If you can’t afford one, hop on YouTube and look up some fitness people with an education in the field.
Don’t linger longer than necessary. This is pretty straightforward. Get to class a minute before it begins and leave immediately after. If it’s not a set class, write down or memorise your workout strategy before arriving and move through it quickly.
Don’t leave your towel and/or water bottle everywhere. Pick up behind yourself. You’re an adult.
Don’t be idle. Don’t sit around on your phone while someone is waiting to use the equipment.
Don’t leave sweat all over the equipment. Sanitize and wipe down every piece of equipment after you use it. Again, you’re an adult
Don’t be a total loner. Yes, be focused on your workout. But get to know people at your gym. You may be lifting next to your next best friend. Remember strangers are friends we haven’t met.
Do respect the headphone rule. It is a universal rule: headphones in, means do not disturb. People wearing headphones are likely trying to focus on their form and distracting them may cause an injury.
Do share. Unfortunately, there isn’t always enough space for everyone. Letting someone “work-in” while you’re resting is a nice thing to do.
Don’t drop the weights. Aside from the obvious danger of dropping them on someone, many gyms have a policy against slamming weights around.
