Getting started at a fitness club

Q: I just joined a fitness club. As a new member, what should be my first step toward getting started?

A: Congratulations on the decision to make your health a priority. A fitness club can offer many resources to help you on your fitness journey. Joining a fitness club can be a great commitment of money, but more importantly, it needs to be an even greater commitment to yourself and your health.

“First, take advantage of any initial sessions offered to you to meet with a fitness team member. Most fitness clubs will offer one to three sessions with a fitness instructor to help you feel comfortable in the club, introduce you to equipment and classes available, and to show you a safe and basic exercise routine.

“Before the fitness instructor, who should be a certified personal trainer, designs a program for you, he or she will discuss your exercise and medical history to safely design a program for you. You also should be asked to speak with your physician about any medical conditions before beginning an exercise program, and to obtain clearance to participate in all forms of exercise.

“If you are given any restrictions or guidelines to follow, be sure to mention them to your fitness professional to ensure you’re staying within your guidelines.

“If your gym does not offer introductory sessions with a personal trainer, hiring a certified personal trainer to guide you in establishing and reaching your fitness goals can be a great investment. Not only can the trainer help you develop a goal-oriented and effective training program, but he or she will also make sure your program is safe. Providing motivation and accountability is another great reason to hire a certified personal trainer.

“Try different classes and programs that might seem like fun. Go early and ask the instructor about the structure of the class. Explain that you are new and will need him or her to keep an eye on you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, the instructors are there to help.

“In order to get the most out of any fitness facility, you must USE its resources and programs. The best fitness facility in the world cannot help you if you do not take the initiative to begin to work. Your success will depend greatly on how comfortable you feel in the fitness center.

“If you feel confused by equipment, indifferent about your exercise program’s structure or uneasy about the overall environment of the club, you’ll find reasons why you shouldn’t go. Secure your success by finding something you enjoy, and get started.

“Always consult a physician before beginning an exercise program.