Sports can be a great way to get fit and have fun, but if you’re new to sports or just getting back into it after a while, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of tips for getting back into sport on your own. Whether you’re looking to join a team or play sports on your own, these tips will help you get started. So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and start moving!
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GET INTRODUCED AND GO WHEN IT’S QUIET.
GET INITIATED:
If you’re completely new to a gym, an introduction with a trained expert is a surefire way to familiarize yourself with all the equipment and your surroundings.
Almost all gyms offer some form of introduction for beginners when you sign up. Your initiation will most likely be provided by one of the sports coaches. Think of it as a personal or guided tour. You will learn the layout of the gym and how to use the equipment safely.
GO WHEN IT’S QUIET:
It can be a great opportunity to practice your skills without feeling embarrassed or competitive. Also, you won’t have to worry about coordinating your schedule with others. So if you’re looking to get back into the sport on your own, go when it’s calm! You will have the opportunity to train at your own pace and exercise without any distractions.
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SET SHORT AND MEDIUM TERM (MICRO-) GOALS.
Setting short-term and medium-term goals is a great way to motivate yourself on days when you don’t feel like working out and can give your workouts more focus. This allows you to see how you are progressing and ultimately helps you achieve your much desired goals.
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TAKE A LOOK AT WORKOUT CLASSES FOR BEGINNERS.
Even if it feels like taking the plunge, there are plenty of beginner classes at the gyms – or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try an intermediate or advanced class.
As well as teaching you how to do a whole host of exercises that you can then practice on your own, classes are also a great way to meet other newcomers to the gym, so your solo gym days may to be short-lived. If you’re not sure which courses to choose, take a look at the list below for inspiration:
- Yoga and Pilates: It’s a great way to expand your comfort zones (and all other body parts) and familiarize yourself with the yogi community.
- Spinning: If you fancy something a little more active, a spinning class is a guaranteed way to get your heart rate up and get you sweating.
- HIIT: High Intensity Interval Training: This involves working as hard as you can for a short amount of time, before taking a quick rest and starting again. Usually divided into rotating stations, you can count on your gym mates to cheer you on throughout this workout.
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LOOK FOR THE EXERCISES.
Going to the gym to try and adopt a healthier lifestyle is fantastic, but performing an exercise incorrectly can lead to injury, which delays your progress and obviously harms you.
If you’ve never lifted weights, there are a number of places you can get information to learn about the moves before you try them. We always recommend that you first contact one of the sports coaches who can accompany you. Do not hesitate to ask for help.
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TRAIN WITH MUSIC.
Besides being a universal sign that shouts “please don’t talk to me”, putting headphones in your ears and listening to your favorite songs can have a positive effect on your performance during a workout, you allowing you to run further, cycle longer and swim faster than usual.
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UPDATE YOUR WORKOUT WARDROBE.
It’s all about feeling good about yourself, doing a little shopping therapy, and finding new outfits for your workouts. For those of you who are new to the gym, chances are it’s to try to feel healthier, physically or mentally.
If you’re wondering what to wear for your first visit to the gym, we’ll be honest with you: it all comes down to a bit of trial and error. Depending on your goals and your training, you will need a different and adapted outfit…
