Talk to the staff. Ask them if they could show you or if you could book a PT session (some offer them for free) to teach you the ropes. Don’t forget it’s your money so try to find a way to make it work for you

Watch how other people are using the machines to get an idea of what to do.

they will show you how – you get a free session one on one with most gym memberships… have fun babe, we are all works in progress!

Gyms are full of staff who are friendly helpful. Don’t be scared, ask them and they’ll explain things

I started going to the gym and hadn’t a single clue, I just asked the trainers there they were very happy to help out. You can do it. Who cares what others think!

take your iPod and just go. I recently asked the staff at the gym if they could show me how to use the rowing machine as i’d never used it, and they were great about it. The funny thing is that once they started showing me and telling me about the settings a few other people came over and joined in learning about it too.

I would also ask for help! Dont be afraid, they are there to help!

Just do it!! And start with something simple. Use a treamill or bike to start with and watch how everyone else uses it.

when you pay a membership, they have to teach you how to use it or you could sue. They have a duty of care to make sure you know what your doing

Most gyms will have staff that can teach you how to use the equipment for free. They also give you suggestions on a good circuit and number of repetitions you should do etc.

Most good gyms have staff who are well-trained on all the equipment, and they’re only too happy to help out with advice and demonstrations. A lot of gyms also have classes, for everyone from beginners (a great place to start) to experts. A personal trainer would be good, but if it’s beyond your finances, just check with the gym staff for help. And don’t go to the gym in the “before or after work” times, which is when I found most of the “beautiful people” went. I went during the day, when there were regular people like me using it.

there are some good comments here

Sucks hey. We go to the gym to look better, but feel embarrassed to actually go. I’m very self conscious and it takes a lot to get me to go 3 times a weeks

did you end up going?

I was the exact same as you! I was so worried about looking stupid by asking. The PT was amazing and said you’d look even more stupid trying to figure it out than you would asking! And he was very helpful!

I wouldn’t be embarrassed. People ask me how to use things and i was the same when i started…

I agree with the idea of giving a personal training session a shot, even just to help you develop a routine and feel comfortable using the equiptment.

I felt the same,wanted to do something but always put it off,have just joined along with my 15 & 14 yr old so far so good,have great trainers who help and not make you feel silly for asking for help . Just go and give it a try most offer a free trial period take that so you know if it’s right for you .

Contact your gym and book a session for them to run through the equipment ect, Most gyms do it and offer a free first time personal trainer to set up a plan for you.

Most Gyms have trainers who will run you through the equipment, or book a personal training session so that you know what you are doing, don’t waste that membership!