4 tips to conquer your first day at the gym

DON’T OVERDO IT

The fact that you’re in the gym in the first place probably means you had to shift a few things around in your life in order to make time for the commitment. You’re now on the road to stronger bones, bigger muscles, and increased strength. With that said, lifting weights can cause injury if done improperly or too often. To avoid injury, proper form and the correct volume are essential.

As a lifting beginner, you (and your muscles) have very little idea what’s coming. If you want your gym experience to be sustainable, do only three or four exercises your first day. This way you won’t be overly sore, and you can recover more effectively for another workout. Slowly work your way up to lift heavier weights with perfect form—there's no rush.

START WITH A COMPOUND LIFT

Four of the biggest muscle-building lifts are the barbell squat, deadlift, overhead press, and bench press. A good rule of thumb (but not an iron law) is to do one of these lifts first, then follow up with assistance exercies to build maxium strength, size, and power.

For example, bench press first for a few sets. Then do another chest exercise—this time, one that is a single-joint movement. Doing one "push" exercise like a bench press or squat followed by one "pull" exercise like a leg curl or lat pulldown is surefire way to build up your back and chest evenly. Since it's your first day, use the push/pull exercise order to leave no muscle behind.

WRITE EVERYTHING DOWN

You can only really note your progress if you know where you started. On your first day, start a training log with all your current stats. Write down the exercises, sets, reps, weight lifted, and rest you take throughout every workout. Your starting numbers will give you the satisfaction of quantifying what you carve out in iron.

CONSUME PROTEIN AFTERWARD

Replenishing your muscles with proper nutrients is the most important thing you can do after you’ve finished lifting. Having a high-protein meal, or supplementing with a quality protein powder, is your best course of action. According to the National Strength and Conditioning Association, a general recommendation for athletes is 1–2 grams of protein per pound of body weight per day.

Edisons Smart Fitness

Gym, Health Club, Fitness Center

North Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach, Little River