You've taken an important step by deciding to go to your first fitness class – one that can reap huge dividends down the road. Still, you may feel anxious about actually attending the very first class, and may be even a little intimidated.
Don't think you're alone, however. Feeling like an outsider is natural, but don't let it stop you from pursuing your fitness goals. Here are a few things to consider before you attend that first class.
1. Don't Be Afraid To Ask For Help
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early for your first class to get comfortably situated and don't hesitate to ask your instructor about proper form and positioning. After all, proper form prevents injuries.
2. Stay Hydrated
Knowing your limits and staying within them will help you avoid problems and a key component to this is keeping yourself hydrated. Bring a full, large water bottle to class and drink from it frequently.
3. Focus On Your Own Fitness
Comparing yourself to others in the class is tempting, especially comparing yourself to someone who is at a higher fitness level. But keep in mind that everyone else is concentrating on their own form and fitness, and that the ones who can do the most also started in the same place as you – as a beginner.
4. Be Patient
Getting frustrated is part of the learning process. Like learning any new skill, it takes practice and more practice, and frustration can be the motivator to lead you to new heights. Instead, look for signs of change, and the initial soreness from that first class is one sign of that change.
5. Wear The Right Clothes
Wearing the right clothes doesn't mean sporting the latest in fashion, but wearing what's appropriate for each type of workout. For example, loose-fitting clothing is best for Zumba, snug-but-stretchy workout gear is best for yoga, while any type of comfortable sweats will work well for group personal training.
6. Eat Something Before
Your body needs fuel for the workout, especially if you're moving non-stop in a group fitness setting. Eating a banana is a great pre-workout snack, as is whole wheat toast with peanut butter.
7. Expect Ups And Downs
Progress doesn't always follow a smooth pattern. In other words, there are going to be good days and bad days; days in which the new milestone you hit in your last class is suddenly out of reach again. Expect the peaks and valleys while enjoying the ride.
The Downtown Athletic Club in Amarillo is committed to creating a non-intimidating fitness experience. Enjoy one of our many fitness classes.
Don't think you're alone, however. Feeling like an outsider is natural, but don't let it stop you from pursuing your fitness goals. Here are a few things to consider before you attend that first class.
1. Don't Be Afraid To Ask For Help
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early for your first class to get comfortably situated and don't hesitate to ask your instructor about proper form and positioning. After all, proper form prevents injuries.
2. Stay Hydrated
Knowing your limits and staying within them will help you avoid problems and a key component to this is keeping yourself hydrated. Bring a full, large water bottle to class and drink from it frequently.
3. Focus On Your Own Fitness
Comparing yourself to others in the class is tempting, especially comparing yourself to someone who is at a higher fitness level. But keep in mind that everyone else is concentrating on their own form and fitness, and that the ones who can do the most also started in the same place as you – as a beginner.
4. Be Patient
Getting frustrated is part of the learning process. Like learning any new skill, it takes practice and more practice, and frustration can be the motivator to lead you to new heights. Instead, look for signs of change, and the initial soreness from that first class is one sign of that change.
5. Wear The Right Clothes
Wearing the right clothes doesn't mean sporting the latest in fashion, but wearing what's appropriate for each type of workout. For example, loose-fitting clothing is best for Zumba, snug-but-stretchy workout gear is best for yoga, while any type of comfortable sweats will work well for group personal training.
6. Eat Something Before
Your body needs fuel for the workout, especially if you're moving non-stop in a group fitness setting. Eating a banana is a great pre-workout snack, as is whole wheat toast with peanut butter.
7. Expect Ups And Downs
Progress doesn't always follow a smooth pattern. In other words, there are going to be good days and bad days; days in which the new milestone you hit in your last class is suddenly out of reach again. Expect the peaks and valleys while enjoying the ride.
The Downtown Athletic Club in Amarillo is committed to creating a non-intimidating fitness experience. Enjoy one of our many fitness classes.
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