A jam-packed gym with no available equipment to use is every fitness enthusiast’s worst nightmare. With the new year coming up, expect an influx of new gym-goers full of resolution. Indeed, going to a crowded gym can be a challenge, but instead of getting upset and going home, work out your way to battle the crowd and still get that body training you need.
Here are simple five tips to help you navigate a crowded gym.
- Have a Workout Plan and a Backup
Before coming to the gym, plan ahead what are your goals for the workout and what exercises you’ll do to achieve them. This way, you don’t have to waste time wandering around the gym and missing out the opportunities you could have done. It’s also wise to have a backup plan in hand just in case your original plan is not achievable.
Sometimes the piece of equipment you want to open isn’t available, so you have to go to other gym areas. Please take this opportunity to challenge yourself by trying on the machines that most people avoid because of how tough they are.
- Go with Your Body
Bodyweight training is a great way to redirect your stress from a crowded gym. These workouts are not only effective, but they are easy to do with no special equipment needed. Claim a small corner at the gym and perform the following exercises while you wait for a piece of equipment to be available:
- Bodyweight squats
- Push-ups
- Pull-ups
- Sit-ups
- Bench Dips
- Hamstring Curls
- Walking lunges
- Flexing
- Calf raises (single or double-leg)
- Straight-arm planking
- Bring Your Water Bottle
It always happens, you just went to get a drink of water for a second and the next thing you know, your station has been taken. Avoid this dreaded situation by bringing your water bottle with you. No need for you to take long walks to the water fountain and leave your bench available for others to take over.
- Pre-Register for a Class
Many gyms offer digital registration system for group classes especially at peak times of the year. If you want to ensure a spot in the gym and avoid the crowds, take advantage of this opportunity and register ahead of time.
- Fine-Tune Your Attitude
Don’t let impatience and irritation take over you and miss an otherwise perfectly good workout. The crowded gym will eventually resume to a place of sweat and solitude after the peak months. Things will settle down soon, and you can enjoy your regular workout routine again without further interruptions. Until then be patient and stay positive. It’s also a perfect way to develop your stress management which is an important key as well to good health.
Don’t let a crowded gym discourage you from hitting that workout session. Learn how to maximize your training in a busy gym and find a right balance of working with what is available and eventually enjoy a great workout. Go to a gym in Hong Kong today and work on your journey to achieve a physically fit and healthier you.
