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Let’s be honest, most people that sign up to a gym do so with the best of intentions. “I’m going to go three times per week,” is probably one of the most common things we say to ourselves when we start (again). However, we all know that it’s not always this easy. Whether it’s your routine, motivation or maybe an injury, I’d like to help you utilise your gym as much as possible
Here are 3 things to focus on when the goal is to get back into the gym.
SIMPLICITY
The gym can be daunting, especially when it’s busy and ESPECIALLY when you don’t have a plan. The goal here is to simply get to the gym. Something I recommend to my clients who are in this position is get to the gym, do one set and see how you feel. If its a nightmare, you are more than welcome to leave. However, what you will generally find is that once you are there and have warmed up, you will be able to complete the programmed session.
SHIFT THE FOCUS
When I meet the majority of my clients for the first time, the main goal is usually fat loss. This is something that a lot of people have attmpted multiple times and unfortunately, have not achieved. Sometimes the thought of trying again can be the greatest barrier to entry to try again. Here is when we can change things up. Go into the gym to try and get stronger of fitter. We can actually measure this pretty accurately with strength and conditioning testing. Nothing is more motivating than seeing progress in the gym. We can then build on these strength and consistency gains when we move into a fat loss phase of training,…should that match your goals.
WHAT TO DO
This is also where a lot of people get lost in the wilderness. What’s the best workout or exercise to get where you want to be?
Generally there is no single exercise or program that is the best. We also don’t really need to commit to three hour long sessions per week. Here’s an idea - aim for 2x 30 minute sessions per week to start and see how it fits in with your day. Use compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, lunges and partner them with some bench press, rows and farmers carry. 2 sets of each 8-12 reps at a moderate weight and TRACK YOUR PROGRESS.
