Gym newbies must read this

Gyms and fitness centers may not be for everyone. But they are convenient locations for working out -- think weights, treadmills, rowing machines, yoga, exercise classes, trainers, scales, and locker rooms with showers. They also can be pretty intimidating for newbies.

"Gym phobia is not at all uncommon among people who don't have gym experience," writes Scott Saifer at Divine Caroline. With this in mind, he offers two basic tips for overcoming gym anxiety.

• Adopt a "beginners mind," admit you're new to the gym scene, and ask for help. Everyone in the gym was a newbie at one time.

• Locate a staff member -- a trainer, nutritionist, membership counselor -- who can teach you how to navigate the gym, how to use the equipment, how to eat right.

Within a few weeks or months of gym visits, you'll blend in, pick up the jargon, develop a routine, and start to show some muscle. And one day, you'll be the pro other newbies seek.

Wait, I have one more tip: Join us for America Takes It Off and gather some momentum for your gym adventures and more.