Feel Awkward at the Office Gym?
Categories: Ask Fitz!, Diet & Weight Loss, Fitness
Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our That's Fit fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.
Q. Hi Fitz. My office has a really nice fitness facility, but I feel a bit awkward using it. It's free and very convenient, I'm just a bit nervous about getting in there. I'm not very fit and it embarrasses me. Donna
A. I feel for you Donna. Office dynamics can be kind of weird, but your lack of gym savvy should not prevent you from enjoying what we both agree is one awesome benefit of your job. You said it yourself: You have full access to a nice gym that's both free and convenient. Who could ask for more? I'm confident my suggestions will put you at ease and get you moving quickly.
The first thing I want you to realize is that everyone in a gym is there with the intention of becoming more healthy and fit. That is not embarrassing -- that's wonderful! The second you step foot inside to exercise, you'll experience camaraderie instead of intimidation. I think it's more embarrassing to be the person who never exercises. You'll be admired and welcomed for making the effort; I wouldn't be surprised if someone reaches out to guide you when you need it.
Second, there are some very simple things you can do which require very little skill. You might try walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike at first. You probably know how to both walk and ride, and these tasks you can do at a very easy level. You might need to ask someone for help getting started if you don't clearly understand the instructions for operation on each machine, though. And when trying out new moves, you can ask for help or simply get a book or magazine which offers photos and instructions on how to do various exercises. You can even reference my Fit Kicks video series here on That's Fit to get some ideas.
If you are nervous about what to wear, stick with something modest, yet functional. Light weight track pants, a T-shirt and sneakers look great on everyone.
Donna, fitness isn't about being the best. Fitness is about doing your best. I think it's really exciting that you want to exercise. I'm confident that if you give your office gym a try, you'll quickly find at least one thing that you like to do and you're good at. From there, it will just get easier and easier. I'll look forward to hearing how it goes. Now get to work!
Punches & Kicks,
Note: The content presented in this Q. & A section is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as medical advice or substitute for professional medical care.
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
J.D. 4-29-2009 @ 1:20PM
Adding a gym-based resistance/cardio routine to your schedule is an excellent way to start improving overall fitness and well-being. However, if training with machines and weights is new to you, please do your homework and find a plan that fits your goals AND your schedule.
http://www.adam-waters-rtp-system.com/
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