If you are like many other people, you invest in a gym membership with the best of intentions… then fall back into old habits that aren’t serving your health. The truth is that regular exercise can have a profound impact on your overall health and wellness. The key is to find a fitness routine that works for you, then maintain a consistent schedule to strengthen your body and improve flexibility.

A gym membership is more than basic access to fitness equipment. If you are putting money into a monthly membership, then make sure that you are maximizing your results by leveraging all of the available services and resources.

Here are a few tips to help you get the most of your gym membership:

Tip #1: Show Up Consistently

Sometimes, getting started can feel like the hardest part. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the idea of an intensive workout, tell yourself that all you need to do is show up at the gym consistently. Once you walk in the door, there are many ways to strengthen the muscles and move your body.

The most important thing you can do in the beginning is set a schedule that you will stick to. It might be that you are starting with 20-minute workouts, then increasing the intensity and frequency over time. Focus on creating the gym habit in the beginning, then you can turn your attention to improving the habits over time.

Remember: your gym membership isn’t going to work if you aren’t using it! Use the monthly payment as motivation to get yourself to the gym regularly so you are receiving the benefit from this membership.

Tip #2: Start Slowly

Diving into an aggressive workout routine can increase the likelihood of injury. If you have been living a sedentary lifestyle, then it’s critical that you ease yourself into this new workout plan.

It makes sense why people jump into an intense workout schedule: they think that going from zero to full-throttle will bring faster results. But strength and fitness need to be built over time. Be patient and trust the process. With a consistent eating plan and workout routine, you will definitely see results in the coming weeks and months.

Tip #3: Remember that Abs Start in the Kitchen

Using a gym membership doesn’t give you a free ticket to eat anything that you want. Even though you are building muscle and burning more calories, you need to make sure you are giving your body the right types of fuel to lose weight.

If you want to see the fastest results possible, then it’s important to implement a new workout routine AND nutritional changes at the same time. Personal trainers always talk about the importance of a diet and exercise program – these habits go hand-in-hand.

Plus, you’ll feel better and have more motivation to use your gym membership when you are eating healthy. It’s hard to want to get on the treadmill or lift weights if your belly is full of fast food and doughnuts.

Tip #4: Find Your Tribe

One of the best ways to stay accountable with your workout routine is to find other people who can help you stay accountable for your personal commitments. There are different ways to build in this accountability with your gym membership:

• Find a friend or family member with a gym membership and schedule times during the week to work out together.
• Hire a personal trainer who will design a personalized plan and follow-up on your habits and routines.
• Join group classes at the gym so you can meet people with similar interests.

When you build the community, it makes the gym a fun place to be. Instead of feeling isolated as you are pushing through a workout without support, it feels nice to have other people by your side. Your accountability partners and workout buddies will cheer you along and offer the encouragement that you need on the tough days.

Tip #5: Talk to the Gym Staff

Do you know everything that is included in your gym membership? Take time to discuss the available services so you aren’t missing out on any of the benefits.

For example, there are often classes and events that can enhance your workout routines. Get a copy of the schedule so you know when these options are available.

Also, don’t hesitate to ask for a little help if you don’t know how to use some of the equipment. Even if you don’t want to pay for ongoing personal training sessions, it’s a great investment to hire a trainer for your first few workouts. You’ll get hands-on support and personalized recommendations to improve your form and overall results.

Tip #6: Focus on Your Mindset

The thoughts that you are having will play a big role in whether you are successful with your goals. Instead of thinking about how much you are dreading your workout, shift your mindset to focus on the benefits you will receive from healthy living.

These mental shifts might seem small, but they have an undeniable impact on your long-term results. You will stay more consistent about using your gym membership when you are happy and motivated to be there – and this motivation starts with your mindset.

Tip #7: Be Patient with Yourself

Fitness results take time. Put in the ongoing effort, and you will definitely see results over time. Remember that you will be the first person to notice the changes. Then, family and friends might start noticing a difference in the coming weeks and months.

Sometimes it takes a year or more to reach your goals. When you finally hit those milestones, you will be proud and feel the accomplishment of the hard work you’ve been putting in.

Ready to Get Started with Your Gym Membership?

Are you thinking about a new fitness journey and you need help getting started? Fitness Nation makes it easy to get a gym membership so you can get on the path to healthier living. Stop by one of our convenient locations to see everything we have to offer: fitness equipment, personal training, classes, and more.