It can be quite intimidating joining a gym, but it can also be extremely rewarding. You’ll gain self confidence, notice massive changes in your health and fitness, and you may even begin to enjoy your trips to the gym. But there are actually other benefits of joining a gym that you might not have thought about, so let’s take a look at some other reasons to sign up to the gym today.

Access to expert advice and specialised equipment

If you haven’t worked out properly in some time, you might be wondering how to start your workouts and what kinds of exercises you should be doing. When you join a gym, you can get personalized advice and recommendations based on what your end goal is from a high end personal trainer. You’ll also have access to specialized equipment such as resistance bands, a variety of weight machines, and lots of cardio machines too. Lots of gyms also have indoor cycling studios and indoor pools that you can use if you fancy changing it up a bit.

If you’re not sure about what equipment to use or how to use it and don’t want to use a personal trainer, most gyms will introduce you with an orientation session to help you become familiar with what each machine can help you achieve. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

Lots of different classes

Some people find it difficult to run on the treadmill or lift weights. You might be more interested in doing an activity that you enjoy. Most gyms and fitness centres offer classes like yoga or aqua aerobics that are based on your fitness level. Be sure to check that these classes are included in your gym membership. While most will be, some might charge extra, so it’s worth checking out. Once you’ve tried a few, you can decide which classes you like the most and advance your fitness level that way.

A supportive community

Some people find gyms daunting because they fear they’re going to be judged. Instead, try and look at it in another light – everyone has to start somewhere, so that guy with huge muscles isn’t going to be judging you. Instead, he’s going to admire you for taking that first step. Gyms can be a wonderful place to meet other people who have been in your shoes and can help you get started. On the other side of things, you’re probably not going to be the only new starter! Finding someone like-minded and in the same position as you will help you stay accountable and motivate you along your journey.

More motivation

Finally, joining a gym helps you stay motivated. Once you’re there, you see other people training and working hard to improve their fitness, which will urge you to do the same. Don’t worry about how much you’re doing compared to the people around you. It’s about pushing yourself a little further each time to improve your fitness and your overall health and well-being.

So, as you can see, it doesn’t matter whether you’re looking to lose weight, tone up or build muscle, the gym is a fantastic place that can be more beneficial than you think.