A Newbie's Guide to Joining a Gym

Hey there! Are you teetering on the edge of starting your gym journey but haven’t quite taken that leap yet? We get it; stepping into a gym for the first time can be as daunting as a Monday morning without coffee. But worry not! The Gym Directory is here to make that leap as smooth as your post-workout protein shake. Our platform will help you find the perfect gym, set your expectations and answer any questions you may have.

Remember, every gym-goer was once a newbie, so do not hesitate to ask questions or for help if you need it!

As a newcomer, knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a guide to help you get started.

What to Expect When You Join a Gym

Induction / Orientation: Most gyms offer an orientation session for new members. This is a great opportunity to familiarise yourself with the facility, learn about the different equipment available, and understand the services offered. It's a great way to speak to people, even if it is only the person doing the induction.
Diverse Equipment and Facilities: Gyms typically house a wide range of equipment, from cardio machines like treadmills and ellipticals to strength-training gear like free weights and resistance machines. Additionally, you might find swimming pools, sauna rooms, or specialized areas for classes. We list facilities on our gym listing page.
Variety of Classes: Many gyms offer group classes such as yoga, Pilates, spinning, and more. These classes are excellent for those who prefer structured workouts or enjoy the social aspect of exercising with others.

What to Bring to the Gym

Comfortable Workout Clothing: Wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothes to stay comfortable during your workout. Proper gym shoes are also important for support and safety.
Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial. Bring a water bottle to keep yourself hydrated throughout your workout. Some gyms may offer water but be prepared if they don't!
Towel: A small hand towel can be handy for wiping sweat and is often required for obvious hygiene reasons.
Lock for the Locker: If you plan to use the changing rooms or lockers, bring a lock to secure your belongings. Some old lockers may require a coin too!
Personal Items: Consider items like headphones for music, a fitness tracker, and any specific gear related to your workout plan.
Notepad and Pen: We highly recommend tracking workouts (read our tracking workouts guide), and whilst that might seem unnecessary for your first session, it could still be useful for taking notes during your induction

Gym Etiquette: Do's and Don'ts

It's probably too soon to get into all the nuances of Gym Etiquette for your first session, but even as a newbie/first-timer there are some things you should probably be aware of

Do Wipe Down Equipment: After using any equipment, it’s polite (and hygienic) to wipe it down with a towel or the wipes provided.
Don't Hog Equipment: Be mindful of others waiting to use the equipment, especially during peak hours. Avoid spending excessive time on a single machine.
Do Respect Personal Space: Gyms can get crowded, but it’s important to maintain a respectful distance from others while they are working out.
Don't Be Noisy: Avoid loud conversations or phone calls, and keep the volume of your music low if you're using speakers.
Do Return Weights: Always put free weights back on their racks after use. This helps prevent accidents and keeps the gym organized.
Don't Give Unsolicited Advice: Unless someone specifically asks for help, avoid giving unsolicited advice about workouts or forms.

Joining a gym is a great step towards achieving your fitness goals. By knowing what to expect, what to bring, and following basic gym etiquette, your gym experience can be both rewarding and enjoyable. It's OK to feel anxious but remember everyone there is trying to better themselves and almost always supportive to newbies.

More Than Just a Membership

Joining a gym is more than just signing up for a membership; it's about joining a community. It's about finding a place to challenge yourself, meet like-minded people, and maybe even have some fun. After all, who said workouts can't be a laugh? Friendship can be born with people you'd never normally get an opportunity to interact with.

Finding Your Fitness Family

In the UK, where the weather can be as unpredictable as a game of British Bulldog, having an indoor fitness sanctuary is essential. At the Gym Directory, we understand that each person's gym needs are unique. Are you looking to pump iron like Arnie, or are you more about that Zen yoga life? Maybe you're keen on spinning your way to fitness? Whatever your style, we’ve got you covered.

Let's Make It Happen!

So, what are you waiting for? It's time to ditch the hesitation and embrace your fitness journey. Head over to our gym listing pages and find the gym that speaks to your soul (and muscles). Remember, every fitness journey starts with a single step - or in this case, a single click.

Let's make it happen! Click to find your perfect gym