There are many different benefits to exercising—improved brain function, overall health, and reduced risks of chronic illnesses among many others—but one thing that some people still struggle to believe is that there are also many different ways to exercise. Many of us associate the concept of working out with the different types of machines and equipment found in the gym, but these aren’t required to get into shape and stay healthy.
Apart from providing access to items that aren’t commonly found at home, another benefit of paying for a gym membership is the option to take fitness classes and have these become your workout session of the day. Workout classes are great not only for offering different options of physical activity through the different classes made available, but also for providing a social aspect to working out that some people actually want.
While the gym allows you to be with other members, everyone is usually just doing their own thing with some sort of earphones plugged in to signal their lack of desire for any form of interaction. On the other hand, fitness classes are able to bring multiple members together and emulate a sort of community in working out. However, there’s no denying that the first class is always the most difficult, so here are some things that you should keep in mind. (1)
Don’t Sweat It
While you are very much encouraged to sweat it all out during the class itself, what you shouldn’t be sweating about is the little fears that you walk through the door with. Every newcomer’s fear is that every pair of eyes in the room are following them with judgment and criticism, but this is hardly ever the case. It might help to remember that everyone in the room started off in the same position as you.
And if you’re standing at the corner of the room worrying about the fact that you’re the only person not speaking to anyone, just breathe and remember that it will get easier. More frequent attendance in the future will allow you to become more relaxed, while also letting other attendees be more comfortable and recognize you as a part of the class, which could lead to conversations and even friendships.
At the end of the day, you’re there for the class, so focus on that and give the relationships time to develop.
Dress for the Part
The fact that you’re attending a fitness class already implies a certain dress code, which consists of comfortable workout clothes that won’t hinder your movement. These classes usually have varying intensities, so make sure that you consider the type of activity you signed up for when deciding what to wear.
Working out in leggings might make it harder to raise your leg for a kick, so make sure to wear some athletic shorts for a kickboxing class. Meanwhile, a power aerobics class with hand weights might ask for a sleeveless top that won’t restrict your arms from raising.
Your choice of workout attire should also depend on your comfort level regarding certain pieces. At the end of the day, you won’t be able to get the most out of the fitness class if you’re too busy worrying about what you’re wearing, so make sure that you feel good in your outfit.
Pack the Essentials
To make sure that you stay in the best shape possible until the end of the class, you should make sure that you have everything you need with you. While you definitely don’t need those massive bulky gym bags that you might have seen in athletic stores, you should have a bag with you to carry your essentials with.
Any visit to the gym requires you to bring a face towel to wipe away the sweat with, as well as a water bottle to make sure that you’re keeping your body optimally hydrated. A change of clothes might also come in handy, especially if you have to go somewhere after your trip to the gym. And if you’re worried about walking out looking like a sweaty mess, then a hygiene pouch or kit will help keep you looking fresh and clean.
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