John Cook, Fitness Associate, joins me for an early 6am start at the gym – his blog provides insights into the realities of gym life.
When Jeanette asked me to draw up an exercise routine for her, I was delighted. We had a fifteen-minute chat about goals, exercise preferences, lifestyle habits, dietary patterns, and time in her diary and all went swimmingly. Or so I thought. The time in the diary bit was the eye-opener, she wanted to do her sessions at six in the morning. Yes 06.00. Not only would that fit into the crowded diary it would also mean the gym would be quiet, if not completely empty, and any unspoken phobia of feeling out of place amongst the Olympic standard gym bunnies could be set aside. I drew up the exercise plan confident that, given time, it would meet her needs and also confident that the early morning starts would not last.
Early Morning Gym Routine: A Journey Begins
So, on the evening of D Day minus one, I set the alarm for half past five, when sensible people are snoring happily, and nightshift workers are looking forward to returning home. D day comes and I crawl out of the pit, even the dogs did not believe it. They were totally thrown by the thought of me getting up and not immediately giving them their morning stroll and convinced that their human had completely taken leave of his senses.
It was so busy!
We arrive at the gym to find the doors opening at six sharp and the queue outside (yes, a big queue outside) sauntered past the cheery smile of the receptionist and minutes later Jeanette is warming up on an exercise bike. While this was going on I took in the scene. The cardio equipment, the free weights area and the resistance machines were all busy with people of every age, gender, size, and shape. There were singles, people with friends, married couples, father, and sons and multicultural enough to look like a United Nations gathering. Sure, there were some guys posing in front of mirrors looking like they had just walked out of a body building competition, and a few young ladies that came straight off the catwalk, but most were middle-aged folk who would use the Clapham omnibus just looking for a healthy lifestyle.
Conquering the Early Morning Gym Phobia
The unspoken phobia of not fitting in was dead and buried completely when a class started (it was called a HIIT class, but nobody was hitting anybody so perhaps it was not a spelling mistake) at six thirty with a similar group of people. One of the most prevalent concerns is the fear of judgment or embarrassment. It is crucial to remember that everyone at the gym is there for the same reason – to improve their health and fitness. Most gym-goers are focused on their own workouts and are not paying attention to others.
Discovering the Reality of modern Gym Culture
The reality is that gyms are designed to cater to a diverse range of fitness needs and goals. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a complete beginner, there is something for with a variety of equipment, classes, and programs that can be tailored to suit your preference and fitness level. Cardio machines and weightlifting equipment, yoga, and spin classes, all under one roof.
The Global Rise of Gym Culture
The global growth in gyms is underpinned by a widening recognition that we need to make a deliberate choice to have a healthy lifestyle. Yesterday’s workforce did more manual work, ate less processed foods, entertained themselves with activities not computer games, watched limited TV when the broadcaster offered the chance, they had less disposable income and fast food did not exist. Today we can easily fall into a rut of tapping keyboards, ready meals and uber deliveries, slouching on the couch and getting stressed over social media. In this context the offer of a healthier lifestyle is an easier sell and incorporating regular exercise into our daily routines is simpler if done at a gym. People recognise this and consequently nobody, and I mean nobody, need feel intimidated or out of place when they take that first step into a gym.
The Supportive Environment of Gyms
Moreover, gyms foster a sense of community and support. When you join a gym, you become part of a larger network of individuals who share similar fitness aspirations. This sense of camaraderie can be incredibly motivating and encouraging, especially for those who may feel self-conscious or unsure about their abilities. Find a gym that offers group classes and personal training sessions, which can help you build connections with others and receive personalized guidance and support. The positive and inclusive atmosphere of a gym can make it easier for individuals to stay committed to their fitness journey and feel a sense of belonging.
The potential wider Benefits of Gym Membership
Furthermore, gyms promote overall well-being beyond just physical fitness. Regular exercise has been proven to have numerous mental and emotional benefits, including reduced stress, improved mood, and increased energy levels. Gyms often offer additional amenities such as saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas, which can enhance your overall wellness experience. Many gyms also provide educational resources and workshops on topics such as nutrition, mental health, and stress management. By taking advantage of these resources, you can develop a comprehensive approach to your health and well-being.
Jeanette’s Progress and New Goals
Two months on and, to her immense credit, Jeanette is still with the programme and the early morning starts. She is enjoying the rowing and talks about personal bests, we have developed bespoke exercises for a few problem areas – notably shoulders and knees, and with a better toned body she has asked me to work out a new routine.
Jeanette’s Progress and Future Goals
The next target is to improve her balance, something we will do and that will add to the foundations for a strong and healthy future far away from the slips and falls that can otherwise occur as the years creep by.
And what about you?
If you would like a fitness assessment and programme design, please contact John on 07500 014415 or follow him on Facebook fitforlife.academy