Vim & Vigor - Spring 2012 - North Mississippi - (Page 38)

GYMTIMIDATION #1: I’M NOT FIT ENOUGH FOR A GYM. “People think, ‘I’m too out of shape to be here,’ ” says Neal Pire, a fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine. “Clients have said to me, ‘I really want to train with you, but I want to get in shape ﬁrst.’ Everyone expects the people [in gyms] to look like bodybuilders and runway models.” Granted, different gyms have different personalities and patrons, and some of them do cater to the hard-body type. That’s why it’s important to get a tour and talk with some of the members before signing on the dotted line. You can also ask friends and co-workers for a referral. You’ll get an insider’s view and, in some cases, they may earn a referral discount or reward. Some gyms provide a free pass for a week. Take advantage of these offers, and shop around. Wherever you decide to call your workout hangout, don’t worry about what others are thinking of you. Chances are, they’re too focused on their own workouts to pay much attention anyway. Online To learn more about your nearest North Mississippi Wellness Center, join us online at www.nmhs.net/wellness_ centers.php or call 800-THE DESK (800-843-3375). Don’t Delay, Start Today GYMTIMIDATION #2: I DON’T KNOW HOW TO USE THE EQUIPMENT. This is a valid concern for two reasons: First, using equipment properly is the key to a successful workout. And second, using equipment improperly puts you at risk for injury. “The most important thing at the gym is to use proper form. More so than weight, it matters how you lift it,” Blanck says. But there’s an easy solution: Choose a facility with certiﬁed trainers on staff, and ask for help. “A lot of clubs, traditionally, have provided one gratis training session with each new member,” Pire says. “Your trainer will teach you how to make your way around the room, and how to use the machines effectively and safely.” Want to try something new after your free session? Ask a skilled member. “Very few people in gyms today wouldn’t want to help someone,” Blanck says. Exercise Etiquette Once you get over your major gym fears, you may still have some trepidation about going to an unfamiliar place. That’s normal, says Edwin Crenshaw, fitness coordinator for NMMC’s Tupelo Wellness Center. But keep his top dos and don’ts in mind, and in no time you’ll “fit” right in. Do restack your weights properly when you’re done using them. Don’t drop weights when you’re using them. This can lead to broken equipment and/or injury to you or others. Don’t linger on equipment when you’re not using it. Get up between sets to allow someone else a turn. Do wipe down your equipment when you’re done so it’s clean for the next person. Don’t expect lengthy social interaction. The gym can be great for socializing, but keep conversations short. If you want to talk more, suggest exchanging phone numbers. Do keep your cellphone on silent, and if you need to take a call, step outside. GYMTIMIDATION #3: I CAN’T RUN AS FAST AS THE WOMAN NEXT TO ME OR LIFT AS MUCH AS THE GUY TWO MACHINES OVER. I used to shield the display on my elliptical machine to keep others from spying me entering my weight or workout time. But it soon dawned on me—nobody’s taking notes on my exercise routine. When I see someone hop on a machine next to me, work out for 10 minutes and split, I think nothing of it. I have no idea if he or she was warming up, cooling down, back for a fourth round or starting slow after an illness or injury. Most importantly, it doesn’t matter. We’re not here to judge, and you won’t be either. Go at your own pace, and remember that you need only compete against yourself. 38 Vim & Vigor · SP R I N G 2 012 http://www.nmhs.net/wellness_centers.php http://www.nmhs.net/wellness_centers.php

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Vim & Vigor - Spring 2012 - North Mississippi

Vim & Vigor - Spring 2012 - North Mississippi
Opening Thoughts
Building Healthier Hearts
Young at Heart
Caring for the Little Ones
Get Real
How Far We’ve Come
Patient Survival Guide
Perfect Attendance
Jennifer Hudson, Grammy-winning recording artist
Lean on Me
Intimidated by the Gym?
What Is Your Volunteer Style?
A Prescription for Relief
Virtual Health
SPECIAL You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby
Get Heart Healthy!
Growing Stronger
The Doctor Will See You Now
Catch the Spirit

Vim & Vigor - Spring 2012 - North Mississippi