Advantages of a Gym and Personal Trainer

It’s no secret that the busiest days at the gym are the first few days of the new year; after all the New Year’s Eve festivities everybody is gung-ho with the resolution to get into shape and transform their bodies.

After that initial busy period the number of people working out begins to wane as they begin to get wrapped up in work, school, and family life again. In fact, statistics show that 67% of people that own gym memberships never use them.

Reasons for the Loss of Fitness Motivation

So why do people lose their motivation and stop going to the gym? Some people are simply intimidated because they don’t have a positive physical self-image; they aren’t happy with the way they look in the mirror and might think the fitter members might look down their noses at them.

This is actually not true. People that have sweated their way to a chiseled physique and a healthy lifestyle understand what it took and actually have a great deal of respect for our more hefty brethren that are on the same path.

Others have set their expectations too high and they are not seeing the results that they wanted soon enough. Some simply don’t understand what they are doing and are reluctant to sign up with a personal trainer.

Yes, those training sessions are expensive. If you are the type to go it alone there is a plethora of great sports physiology information. One landmark reference is Lore of Running, 4th Edition authored by Tim Noakes, MD.

Finally, many people are put off by the crowds. If you fall into any of these categories, perhaps a gym membership isn’t right for you. After all, many people are content to run and walk on the streets and keep a few weights and kettlebells at home. No shame in that.

Structuring Your Time and Workouts in the Gym

On the other hand, if you are working out regularly but aren’t getting the results you want, it may be time to re-evaluate your routine. Are your workouts targeting your goals effectively? Is your diet supplying your needs?

If the conditions are too crowded for you, try to go during a different time of the day or evening. You might find your lunch hour more convenient.

Keep a Workout Log to Track Fitness Progress

It is also very helpful to keep a log or journal of your workout activities. This will help you to pinpoint what is working and what isn’t. Learn what foods and lifestyle changes boosted your energy levels and which ones sabotaged it.

It will also help you to set and meet both short-term and long-term goals. Many people underestimate the importance of goals and want to see instant results; when they begin their plan they overlook the fact that it took them years to get out of shape and it will take a while to get back in shape.

One of the best things you can do to get on track quickly and begin to realize your goals is to sign up with a personal trainer. He or she can set you up with a personal routine that will target your goals whether it’s weight loss, gaining muscle mass, or improving your anaerobic fitness level.

Not all trainers are the same though. It is important to find one willing to work closely with each of their clients to help them reach their individual goals.

Whether you are interested in fitness group classes or one-on-one training a professional will be able to guide you. Everything should be individually priced so that each client gets the biggest bang for their buck.

The best time to negotiate for training sessions is when you are discussing (and negotiating) a membership with the gym of your choice. They will often give you reduced rates or several free sessions in order to seal the deal.