I have just joined a gym and am very unfit. Can someone please give me some pointers on starting off?

Question

In particular, how long should I exercise for. What sort of exercise should I do? Should I exercise every day. I am completely lost and clueless!

Answer 1

Start off slow, cardio for 20-30 minutes to start might be good. Just whatever you are comfortable with. You don't have to run, just get on a treadmill and walk, uphill if you want to burn a few more calories. After walking for a few weeks, step it up a notch and try jogging for about a minute and then walking for 90 seconds. Gradually up your jogging time and lower your walking time.

Don't go to the gym every day. You will burn out if you do, and your body needs time to recover from the workouts. Try every other day.

Lifting weights is also good, I don't know if your gym has freeweights or machines, both have their goods and bads, but the most important thing is to do the excercises properly. Use the mirrors to look at yourself, (even though it seems silly and vain) and make sure your aren't swinging your body around to do an excercise. If you find that you are, there is no shame in lowering your weight and doing an excercise properly.

Lastly, have a goal. If you want to get in 2 hours of cardio a week, make that a goal. If you want to be able leg press 200 pounds, make it a goal. Set short term and long term goals, so you can monitor your progress... Work towards your goals. Otherwise you may find yourself wandering aimlessly in the gym.

Good luck! And have FUN!!

Answer 2

Go very slowly. Start off doing real easy exercises and not for more than 15-20 minutes. Add more time as you feel more energy and feel comfortable. Don't push yourself too hard or you will find it very easy to quit. The treadmill is a great place to start - walking is an excellent exercise. Water exercise and yoga are good exercises.. Good luck - and have fun too.

Answer 3

I would agree that starting out slowly is a good idea.

Basically, do a little bit of walking or aerobics, add some weight resistance (either weight training, pilates, or yoga) and add on as you become more fit.

As far as nutrition goes, slowly cut back on the stuff that you're eating too much of and instead of cutting out any food groups, focus on getting a balance of nutrients.

Don't deprive yourself. If you feel like having some chocolate, give yourself a little.

And, last, but not least, find someone to work out with... it makes all the difference in the world!!!

Answer 4

I agree with others to ask the trainer or staff at your gym for pointers and start at a modest pace you're comfortable with. You don't have to go everyday, but each time you do go to the gym, definitely do some cardio activity (i.e., treadmill, elliptical machine, stationary bike) for at least 30 minutes to burn calories and also work with some weights to tone your body.

Have fun and and don't feel initimidated by others there who are already in great shape! :)

Answer 5

i would recommend starting on a gentle regime for approx 30-40 at a time until you get used to it and probably three to four days a week... if you go overboard you will be sore and not want to do it any more... start small... does your gym have a personal trainer??? highly recommend a session with them... good luck

Answer 6

Start off with eating healthier, and maybe 30- mins to a hour on a tread mill. Advance from there. Cardio.

Answer 7

Most gyms have fun , motivating classes that you can participate in. They are fun and you 4get you are excersizing.

OR

Grab a friend and go for workouts..

If your in Perth Australia I will go with you... Im looking for a gym buddy

Answer 8

You joined a gym. Ask the people that work there. That is what they are paid for.

Answer 9

i would start off with the program "body for life". it is a very good program for starters...