unWINEd

Do this, but don’t do that. The correct way to gym is finally here!

The internet is full of right ways, wrong ways, and every opinion in between. The best part about all of this is that the right way is whatever way you want to do it. A lot of online content is great for getting advice and learning, but just showing up at the gym is enough to know you’re doing it right.

Showing up is enough. I want to make that insanely clear to anyone and everyone who is struggling to get into the gym. It does not matter what your goal is; it does not matter how long you’ve been going to the gym. Nothing else matters. You just need to show up.

Now that you’re inside the gym, the second-hardest part is deciding what’s best for you. You must understand your goals in the gym at this point. Some examples of goals people have are increasing muscle mass, losing weight, improving flexibility, or just staying active. You can change your goal at any point in your gym journey. However, it is important to always have a goal. Currently, my goal is to retain most of my muscle while getting leaner. 6 months ago, my goal was to gain muscle mass. I have changed my routine due to the change in my goals. That is completely normal for everyone at the gym. Never be afraid to change your goals.

Depending on the gym you go to, group classes are always a fantastic starting point. It is extremely intimidating your first class or two, but they become super fun super quick. You have to remind yourself that everyone in there had to go to their first class at some point. You may feel uncomfortable or out of place, but they did too. Stay confident. These classes do so much good for individuals who don’t know where to start.

If your gym does not provide classes, the internet is a great place to learn. I used an app when I first got started in the gym to help me learn exercises and create a routine. I used WeGLOW, which is a workout app designed specifically for women. Alive by Whitney Simmons is another app that I have heard many positive reviews about. Many of these apps walk you through workouts and exercises. It is important to do exercises correctly so that you are targeting the right muscles, but also so you do not risk getting injured.

There is no right or wrong way to work out in the gym. Every person has the right to a healthy lifestyle, and they deserve to achieve that in whatever way works best for them. The gym is just the first step. Many other factors go into creating a healthy lifestyle and a healthy body. Start with step one, and then keep on stepping. You all have the ability and determination to make a better life for yourself. You all deserve the best life for yourself. Never forget that.

❤ Tootie