Quote:
Originally Posted by Hot_Flatus
I've been working out regularly (at least 3 times a week) for more than 10 years now and I stick to a routine that works for me that includes a mix of cardio, weight training and stretching. I'm by no means in it for the gainz and simply enjoy staying in shape and trying new routines every few weeks. The biggest thing about the gym and sustainable fitness is finding that zone where you want to go as opposed to feeling obligated to go. It's great that people decide to start working out and want to stay fit, but if you don't find your own routine/motivation that works for you, it simply will never stick.
I personally have a problem with anyone suggesting people who are new to working out should immediately go get a personal trainer. It is intimidating enough to make that step into adding a gym routine to your life let alone signing up for something you know little to nothing about. Most gyms offer no charge orientations with employees who are typically extremely knowledgeable on weight training and fitness. Start there and ask questions so you at least have an idea of how the equipment works and so you don't hurt yourself. Even machines can cause significant injury if you're overloading yourself or not using proper technique or range of motion etc. There's no sense spending a bunch of money or hiring the wrong type of trainer right off the bat. There are a lot of bad trainers out there and even good ones can ruin your experience by pushing you way too hard or if they're not on the same track as you are.
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I personally have a problem with someone recommending that a novice not seek the highest level of knowledge available. User name checks out.
People are intimidated because they lack knowledge. So how does one most quickly climb the knowledge curve? Through trial and error after an orientation by some rando club employee or from someone credentialed in the subject matter?
Without meaningful reference points, most novices don't even know what questions to ask. That's why you pay a professional to educate you. While a PT isn't the only track, and not all of them are good, it isn't a life-long contract. Like anything else, you assess the fit and benefit against your goals, commitment and budget and go from there. I've been month to month for nearly three years.