Taking my run inside

As it gets colder and chillier, I found myself avoiding my runs outside. Instead of giving up on running, I decided to take the plunge and get a gym membership.

I quickly learned how much I dislike treadmills. I have a hard time getting the right stride, although this may be because I’m newer to the whole thing. I also find that I get bored quickly.

My eyes wander. I’m conscious about everyone around me and what’s happening on all the TV screens. There’s so much going on in the gym that even with headphones on and music blasting, my mind is not present at all.

One tip I have found is to avoid peek times. Going to the gym should be about you and your workout, not everyone around you. Knowing it will be busy can add stress to your routine and make you dread it. Also, going when it’s slower ensures you’ll have a better chance at getting the machine you want and at least be more comfortable.

Also, plan your workout, for better or worse. I went to the gym last week with the impression that the studio would be free and I’d be able to jog for 30 minutes and then do some yoga stretches. I was looking forward to this routine and I had only one hour to get it done. However, once I had finished my jog and headed upstairs, the class was going overtime. I waited. They were still going. I now had only 15 minutes to get my stuff done at the gym before work. I got agitated and annoyed and ultimately I ended up leaving unfulfilled with my workout.

These things happen. Plan an alternate routine so you’re ready for when your machines are being used, the class is cancelled, or if you get there and you just aren’t feeling it.

Last but not least: positive thinking. Going to the gym and dreading how stinky, boring and busy it is, won’t help you improve your fitness, it will only serve to aggravate you. I try to focus on why I enjoy running and working out, and how good I will feel after. It really helps get me out the door and to class.