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By Jason David
3 common pitfalls faced by beginners in the realm of fitness and how to overcome them effectively.
When it comes to joining a gym, many beginners make the mistake of solely focusing on the price. However, price shopping alone has never been effective in the search for long-term health. While it's important to find a gym that fits within your budget, it's equally important to consider the quality of coaching and the opportunity for long-term skill building.
Quality coaching and skill building often come at a price. While it may seem higher than what you've been conditioned to believe is a 'good price', it's important to understand that investing in your health is worth it. If you're content with the results you've obtained at a budget-friendly gym like Planet Fitness, that's perfectly fine (it's also quite rare). But if you're reading this article because you haven't found success, it may be time to explore other facilities that offer higher quality coaching and a more comprehensive approach to fitness.
Helpful tip: Your gym membership should be MORE than your Amazon Prime membership.
This is a bit 'click baity' as safety should always be a top consideration when engaging in any physical activity, especially when it comes to fitness. While nobody wants to get hurt, it's important to recognize that there is a certain level of risk involved in any physical endeavor. However, most injuries occur when individuals fail to listen to their coaches or engage in reckless behavior.
For example, if your weightlifting coach advises you to rest when you're tired because your back is rounded during snatches, it's crucial to heed their advice. Ignoring their guidance and proceeding with the exercise could lead to injury. It's important to take responsibility for your own safety and trust the expertise of your coaches.
While injuries can happen, especially for athletes pushing their limits, it's essential to embrace the mindset of an athlete. Athletes are proud of their accomplishments and understand that occasional setbacks are a part of the journey. Avoid the safety trap of being a couch potato and instead, strive to become a better version of yourself and pushing your limits in a controlled and responsible manner.
Helpful tip: Think of every person you know that has told you about their various injuries at their particular discipline. Do you admire them? Why?
Legal Disclaimer: If you join a good gym, you WILL get hurt. This is not fine print. This is in bold.
When starting any fitness journey, it's important to remember that everyone starts as a beginner. No matter what activity you choose, whether it's CrossFit or martial arts, you will inevitably be bad at it when you first start. However, this should not discourage you.
Take inspiration from others who have gone before you. That 64-year-old woman in your first CrossFit class didn't start the week before you; she put in the time and effort to improve her fitness. The white-haired guy in your jiu-jitsu class with a purple belt didn't become skilled overnight; he likely went through the same challenges you're facing now.
Remember that everyone sucks at the beginning, but with persistence and dedication, you will gradually improve. Embrace the learning curve and focus on building your skills over time. You may be surprised at how far you can come with consistent effort and a willingness to learn.
Helpful tip(s): If you have a child, what advice have you given them? Did you tell them to quit soccer after they kicked the ball into the wrong goal when they were 4? What did you say to them after hearing their violin play during their first Christmas concert?
In conclusion, let's consider making a change. Not a complete lifestyle overhaul, but a shift in decision-making. It's time to seek out a legitimate gym. One that makes your palms sweat and your heart race as you walk through the door, not just because of the price tag, but because of the unknown challenges that await. Instead of letting the cost scare you off, see it as a guiding light leading you to where you need to be. And if the fear of injury is holding you back, know that you're not alone - you won't be the oldest, heaviest, clumsiest, or weakest. Just the newest. Picture yourself telling your doctor about a minor ankle sprain from attempting box jumps, rather than discussing yet another adjustment blood pressure medication. An achievement to be proud of? And remember, embrace your initial lack of skills. Your first day will likely be your toughest - that initial CrossFit thruster may look nothing like it should, and your first jiu-jitsu snake might resemble a medical emergency more than a martial arts technique. But that's all part of the journey. It may not seem like it is what you want. But it's absolutely what you need.