Starting a new fitness routine with group classes or personal training is an exciting step towards achieving your health goals! Whether you’re looking to boost your energy, build strength, or simply make some new friends, BPM Fitness offers a range of options to suit your needs. This guide is here to help you navigate your first experiences with confidence and ease. From choosing the right class to preparing for your first session, we’ve got you covered with practical tips and friendly advice. Let’s get started on this exciting journey together!

1. Choosing the Right Class or Trainer

Tips for selecting a class or trainer that suits your fitness goals and personal preferences.

  • Assessing Your Goals: Understanding whether you’re interested in cardiovascular improvement, strength building, flexibility, or weight loss can help you choose the right type of class or focus for personal training.
  • Trial Classes/Session: Right now we offer a one week free trial for classes as well as a free assessment with a personal trainer if looking for more one on one training. This is recommended for anyone new to working out who may need a hand in getting started. Utilize these opportunities to find a good fit.

2. Preparing for Your First Workout

How to come well-prepared to maximize your experience.

  • What to Bring: Essentials include a water bottle, towel, appropriate footwear (typically a flat shoe for lifting or running shoes for cardio), and comfortable athletic clothing. 
  • Arriving Early: Aim to arrive at least 10-15 minutes early. This gives you time to familiarize yourself with the space, meet your instructor or trainer, and settle in without rushing.
  • Pre-Session Hydration and Nutrition: Eating a light snack like a banana or a small yogurt 30-60 minutes before your workout can provide energy without weighing you down. Hydration should be prioritized throughout the day.

3. During the Workout Session

Maximizing the benefits of your workout while ensuring safety and comfort.

  • Following Instructions: Pay close attention to the instructions from your trainer or class leader. It’s crucial for safety and effectiveness. Coaches will help you throughout the workout if needed, but pay attention as they demonstrate at the start of classes for best performance. 
  • Pacing Yourself: It’s important to listen to your body and not push too hard, especially in the first few sessions. As a first timer, the beginning will be hard! After a while you will notice it becomes easier. We all gotta start somewhere. 
  • Asking for Modifications: If an exercise feels too challenging, ask for alternatives. Our trainers and instructors can provide modifications to accommodate different fitness levels or physical limitations.

4. Post-Session Tips

Actions to take after your class or session to aid recovery and progression.

  • Cool Down and Stretch: Engage in a cool-down phase to gradually lower your heart rate and stretch to reduce muscle stiffness.
  • Post-Workout Nutrition: Consuming a mix of proteins and carbohydrates shortly after the session can help with muscle recovery. Make sure to continue drinking water after the workout as well. 
  • Feedback: Providing feedback to your instructor or trainer can help tailor future sessions to better suit your needs.

5. Building a Routine

How to incorporate group classes or personal training into a long-term fitness strategy.

  • Consistency Over Intensity: Establishing a regular routine is more beneficial than occasional intense workouts.
  • Progress Tracking: Keep a log of your workouts and any progress indicators, like strength gains or improvements in stamina, to stay motivated and see your development over time.

 

References 

Trainerize.me. Hydration during workouts: The crucial role of water in fitness. Retrieved from https://www.trainerize.me

Utah State University Extension. Maintaining hydration: A guide for endurance runners. Retrieved from https://extension.usu.edu

Brigham Young University. Hydration tips: Before, during, and after exercise. Retrieved from https://exsc.byu.edu

Precision Hydration. Science of recovery: Importance of food, hydration, and sleep. Retrieved from https://www.precisionhydration.com

Elo Health. The ultimate guide to post-workout nutrition. Retrieved from https://www.elo.health