So Now What?
Congratulations, you just got a shiny new gym membership! Or did you buy a new home gym? Way to go! You made a great decision. But then…you realize you feel like a super dork at the gym, because what even are these machines?! And that home gym equipment is now a shelf for Amazon packages and unfolded laundry. So now what? We love feeling the warm glow of investing in possibilities. When we realize the follow through is less fun than imagining our success, how do we make those investments pay off?
You’re not alone. I never felt more smug than when I signed a year contract to my local gym, feeling absolutely sure that this was going to be my glow up year. That ended up being the most expensive two gym sessions I ever went to. Becoming fit and healthy didn’t become my reality until I joined a HIIT class where I was told what to do, and people would notice if I skipped a session. Those two elements are the key to making your gym investment pay off: 1) have a planned program, and 2) have accountability.
Programming
Nothing spells doom to your goals like not knowing how to reach them, which is why I always recommend starting with some guidance. While there are some reputable fitness influencers who create videos and programs (please do your research before trusting your body with someone!) you really can’t beat having a certified personal trainer to get you started. No two bodies or people are the same, and exercise is not one size fits all. A trained fitness professional will see what weaknesses need attention, will know how to train progressively, and will educate you on how to use equipment correctly.
If you are at a gym pay a little extra for an in house trainer to analyze your current physical abilities and goals, and give you a progressive plan. If you bought your own equipment make it a package deal by hiring a freelance trainer to help you create a program based on what you have available, and your personal physical goals. Most CPTs won’t require a long term contract, so you can keep the additional cost low. In the long run it makes sense to pay a bit more up front so Future You can get the most out of the gym with the least risk of injuries.
Accountability
A common theme in Blue Zones around the world is strong community; we thrive on having a social circle. (I see you rolling your eyes, Introverts. Yes even those of us who say we hate people actually really hope to find a tribe who get us and our weird ways.) The fitness community is diverse, and you can find your people by joining a class, finding a personal trainer who shares your health values, or reaching out to someone you already know.
While I always recommend getting started with a personal trainer to keep you safe and accountable, having friends who support your goals get you past motivation dips in the long term. I often encourage my clients to have fitness buddies who will inspire them to progress, maybe even working out with them between our sessions. It makes your workouts more fun, and you’re more likely to follow through when someone else is counting on you.
The final word in making your gym investment successful for the long term is to also invest in your programming, and to find your fitness tribe, even if it’s just one person to help you stay focused. Stay safe my friends, and save your sweat for the gym, not the small stuff.
