My Advice for Gym Beginners

Me lifting as much weight as I lost. Its hard to believe
 I was carrying all this around. 

Let me start by saying that Ive never been one to enjoy exercising. Other than being in dance through junior high, I really didnt care to exercise. Its no surprised that this contributed to me weighing 285 pounds by the age of 21! But as Ive lost weight, Ive tried to develop an interest in the vital habit. I know that without exercise, I will not be able to maintain my weight loss.

 Its taken a few weeks, but Im happy to say that Im addicted to the gym. :)

Yup, who would have thought. Certainly not my family and friends.

I guess I assumed, like most probably do, is that if youre meant to love exercise it will happen instantaneously. Like youll step on the treadmill and think, "This is meant for me. Im a runner." But as Ive started going to the gym consistently for the last two weeks I realize that learning to love exercise isnt instantaneous. My love for exercising increases each time I do it. It changes as I challenge myself in different ways. Im not the fastest, the strongest, or the most knowledgeable when it comes to training, but I walk through the doors and give it my all, and the feeling of accomplishment associated with that is whats addicting.

Ive come to understand that my competitive nature thrives on the treadmill. When Im doing cardio, I do best on the treadmill. I challenge myself in way I wouldnt on the elliptical or bike. Honestly, I love my time on the  treadmill. Im sure that this sentiment isnt shared by everyone, so I think its important to find a type of exercise that motivates you to push yourself in new ways. 

Beyond cardio Im doing some weight lifting. Right now I dont have a trainer, I feel more comfortable using machines than I do free weights. I feel like theres more guidance and as a result less chance of injury. Im currently focusing on legs, arms, and abs. As far as my weight goes, I know that the gym has helped me tremendously when it comes to maintaining. 

Often I find myself going in with the intention of a quick half hour workout, but I end up coming out two hours later. Going to the gym has turned in to Lowery Time. Im able to process the day, sort through the chaos of life, and find peace of mind. 

Now Im no personal trainer, but I would like to offer some advice to beginning gym-goers:
-Leave your cell phone in the car
-Develop a schedule
-Take time to stretch
-Set goals
-Listen to music

I dont go to the gym to tweet, take pictures, or text people. I go to workout. Having my cellphone with me is a total distraction. I leave it in the car so its not even an issue.

My schedule is simple. I go to the gym 5-6 days a week, in the evening 2 hours after I eat dinner. I do cardio first and weights second. My workouts are at least 1 hour. If I am consistent with the time I go to the gym, Im able to work other obligations into my schedule without having to cancel workouts. 

I do some simple stretches before I begin running, but for the most part, I save the stretching for the end of my workout. It takes about 20 minutes for me to stretch out, but its time well spent. It helps prevent soreness and is incredibly relaxing. 

I set day by day goals as well as long term ones. Each day I go into a workout with the intention of running a faster mile than I did the day before. Ultimately my goal is to run a 10 minute mile (I am a super slow runner) by the end of April, and run a 45 minute 5K by the end of June. These goals give me somethings to work toward. Each day is progress. 

I cant tell you how many times I am close to giving up on a workout when the perfect song comes on and helps push me beyond my mental limits. Create a playlist of upbeat song and title it your "Workout Playlist." I use noise cancelling headphones, too. It helps me drown out any distractions.

What are some things you do to help stay motivated in the gym? 

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