If you’re reading this, it’s very likely that you decided to start your fitness journey—or maybe you’re coming back after some time off—and you want to start working towards that dream body or running a marathon. It can be intimidating to get started, especially if it is your first time in the gym. You are surrounded by machines that can be confusing, a room full of strangers, and the smell of the gym (yes, gyms have a smell), and you might feel overwhelmed. Fear not, because this article will help you start with confidence!
Getting Started – Resources at BCIT
The best part about starting your fitness journey as a BCIT student is that we have great clubs and resources on campus to get you started!
The first and most obvious one is BCIT Recreation Services. There’s a fully stocked gym with all the essential weights, cardio machines, fitness classes, and sports. If you aren’t ready for the weight room, you can start with yoga or rock climbing. If you don’t know what your goal is but want to get started with knowledgeable people, you can check out the fitness class schedule.
BCIT Powerlifting Club is another great resource to help you dial in on your fitness goals. JP runs the club, and while most of the members focus on powerlifting, don’t let the name scare you! JP has lots of athletic experience—having a football background before starting powerlifting—and is always happy to help people, regardless of their fitness goals.
Overcoming Your Nerves
The biggest barrier for most people starting out is not strength or diet; it’s nerves! You might be nervous about people judging you or not being strong enough, or maybe you have social anxiety. Let me be the first to tell you: you can leave those nerves at the door.
Despite what people may say on social media, the gym is a supportive and welcoming community. You will sometimes be nervous trying something new, but remember that everyone around you was in your shoes once! If you talk to people at the gym, you will quickly realize that many will happily give you a spot or advice on how to use a machine!
Start Off Strong
Here are a few ideas to give you confidence and make your time in the gym a success:
- Take a tour: The staff at the gym likely have some experience. They can get you set up, show you where everything is, and help you use machines you may be unsure how to operate!
- Think comfortable, not fashionable: You can wear sweatpants and a hoodie, or a tank top and shorts! Whatever you feel comfortable and confident in will make the best gym wear.
- Don’t underestimate warming up: A warm up will poise you for a great workout. Take 5–10 minutes to stretch, walk on the treadmill, or foam roll out your muscles to prepare your body.
- Come with a plan: Pick 3–5 exercises you feel confident doing. Don’t worry about having a perfect workout; getting in and being consistent for the first three months will take you further.
On top of looking great, you will feel incredible once you’ve been in the gym for a few months! If you workout at BCIT in the morning, come say hi! You can catch me in a Carhartt hoodie, and I will be happy to answer any questions you have.
Links:
Recreation services: https://www.bcit.ca/recreation/
Class schedule: https://www.bcit.ca/recreation/classes/
BCIT Powerlifting: https://www.instagram.com/bcit.powerlifting/
