I am not a big fan of gyms, but I will always recommend that we take up a membership at least once in our lifetime.

Why? Because if an impatient person like me can occasionally visit it, so can you.  

I remember the first time I joined a gym. I took one of the most expensive packages, with a personal trainer and all. I went on the first day and then disappeared for three months. When I did decide to go back, I called my trainer to let her know I was coming.

I was in a for a surprise. They had decorated in the entire gym and had cake (gluten and egg-free) to welcome me back. It was a bit embarrassing, since all the staff were there for the free cake. I thought the cake was for me.

I have grown wiser over the years. I do frequent the gym on and off, but I don’t do it to tone my muscles or follow some protein-drinking and promoting schedule. I do it when I feel I need to feel a bit healthy. When you feel healthy, things work out for you. That has always been my creed.

For the countless people like me, just remember these things when you get back to the gym.

Get enough sleep

A good sleep is important after a workout because that is when muscles really get to recover, especially when you start a routine. Your body will be ready for the aches and pains.

Drink plenty of fluids

I would advise that you have plenty of water, which is essential to good hydration. But you can also try Utonic. It’s a great drink and will keep hydrated during your workout sessions, especially when you get onto the treadmill.

Start slow

Don’t be Hercules or Mr Incredible, you will sprain some part of your body. And you don’t want to strain your muscles on the first day. I normally do a limited number of warm-up and stretches, like for e.g. 10 pushups. Do what you are comfortable with from the start and then gradually increase your take as and when you build your stamina and strength

Always have a small snack.

They say have protein-rich snacks. Go for it. A health bar before, during and after a workout is great. It will help build muscles. That’s what I used to have whenever I head to the gym. But I also recently started making these healthy protein pancakes using Koja products. If you want the recipe, you can check it out here.

Get the right shoes

Always get the right shoes, which will not only be comfortable, but take care of your feet when you do your workout. Clothes are secondary, your feet need care since they bear the bulk of your weight. They also take the strain of your workout, so it pays to show them some love.

If you keep these small pointers in mind, you may not lose weight overnight, but you will feel a bit more confident heading to the gym and more likely to return.

That’s what everyone wants – a boost of confidence to achieve anything.