Workout Resolutions

The original version of this post was written for Lessons of an 80′s Alumna which is an ode to my 40′s and all the things I had learned.  I thought many moms would appreciate me dusting it off and sharing it.

All the people who receive gym memberships for Christmas or made resolutions to workout next year will be swarming to the gym January 2nd.  I thought I would share some suggestions that might make the new or returning gym members gel with the old gym rats a little better.

1) If you have never been to a class, get there early and let the instructor know you are new.  You will often find them standing outside the door.  Don’t wait until a minute before class or once the class starts to divulge this information. Last year, several instructors asked who was new in the first three classes. O.k. now that is out of the way, I will give you constructive suggestions for you.

2) Check at the front desk to see if there is a sign-in sheet.  You don’t want to get put off of a bike or out of a class because you failed to sign the list.  At one gym that I go to, the moms sign-in for spin 30 minutes before class and then run the kids to school.

3) Ask around.  If you are already in pretty good shape, the level of the instructor may not matter.  If you are new to working out, try to find a gentle class or someone who works with beginners.

4) Bring plenty of water.  Sometimes the vending machines in the gym malfunction.

5) Take a friend with you.

6) Please don’t talk in the middle of yoga or clap after class ends.  Of course there are chatty yoga instructors who enjoy audience participation.  On that note, try not to eat two hours before class.  We usually know the new people by their flatulence.

My son has aged quite a bit since the original post was written.  At most of the gyms that provide child-care, he is exercising too.  Everyday when I pick him up after school, he asks if we can go to the gym.  When we workout, we model good behavior for our children.

What are some of your plans for better health in the new year?