I've been putting off joining the gym for ages but after receiving a lot of comments the past year about my fluctuating weight (blame Dominoes Pizza! ) and a few pregnancy enquiries (rude or what!?) perhaps it's time to take matters more seriously and tone up for 2013.
Growing up I never had weight issues as I was naturally slender. I still feel comfortable with my body and fit into some of my old teenage clothes (if I squeeze!) however, now that I'm in my mid twenties I have bloated up around my stomach area and the tops of my arms all of which will hopefully be remedied by exercise and a few diet changes.
Luckily, my local gym had an offer on where you could purchase a 28 day pass for £28 which I think is great, especially for a newbie like me. I can try it out and if I feel it's the right gym choice for me then I will sign up for the year. It's always good to check if your local gyms have these kinds of offers, they usually pop up around spring/summer time when people start preparing for the 'beach body.'
I haven't weighed myself in about three or four years so my friend and gym partner persuaded me to use the scary looking machine they had in the changing rooms which takes your height, weight, and other measurements. Here are my results:
Yep that's me up there... definitely a bit out of shape and a few curves pointing in the wrong direction. However, the results weren't as bad as I thought! My main goals are to achieve a flat stomach, tone up my arms, and improve on my eating habits.
If you are thinking of joining the gym, here are a few essentials that you will need:
- Loose thin T-shirts/vests
- Trainers
- Leggings or sports trousers
- Shorts
- Water bottle
- Towel
- Flip flops for the shower rooms
- Portable shower gel, soap and hair wash
- Swimsuit (not bikini, unless you are very brave!)
- Hoody
- Gym bag
Sports Direct is a great place to find the bits and bobs you need for the gym as the prices are very reasonable and they often have lots of discounts online and in store. The staff at my local shop are very helpful and pointed out some items for me when I explained that I was new to the gym.
I will update you on here or on twitter with my progress and perhaps review some of the classes that I have enjoyed over the 28 days. If you are thinking of joining the gym or have been a member of the gym for a while, let me know your thoughts and tips in the comments below.
