We were very lucky to have a chance to sit down with YouFit’s Personal Trainer of the Month for September — and we asked him all the questions that keep us up at night. Read on for some fascinating glimpses into gym intimidation, motivation hacks, being a trainer, how to get yourself back into the gym and tons more.
What’s the biggest mental hurdle people face when trying to get fit?
Intimidation! For my work environment, the gym, one of the toughest things for people to overcome is gym intimidation.
New members may feel self conscious as if everyone is looking at them. They see all the members who are in great shape and they think they must have been born that way — they can begin to feel out of place.
The equipment can be intimidating. There are so many adjustments and no one wants to be seen using the equipment incorrectly so instead we avoid it.
The environment can be intimidating, too! Loud music, bumper plates hitting the floor, members having a great time talking and laughing… All of this can be overwhelming to the senses of a new member walking into a new gym, especially for the first time. Gym intimidation is real, but it’s also something people have dealt with for a long time and we know the ways to get past it.
How do you help them overcome it?
By making my clients feel relaxed, as if we’ve been friends for a long time. I introduce them to other members, usually some of the larger-than life-personalities in the gym, so they’ll have friends in the gym and no longer feel like a stranger. I teach them some basics so they can feel confident they’re using the equipment safely and correctly.
I try to create an environment for my clients, and the members, where everyone knows each other — to make sure it’s always a friendly and welcoming gym to walk into.
Any advice for someone who’s lost motivation?
I have gotten this question so much throughout my career! It happens to all of us.
I would first recommend teaming up with a trainer — someone who can motivate, inspire and challenge you.
I would also recommend the same advice that I use myself: You can do things as simple as put new music on your phone, get a new workout shirt or gym shoes, or get some new protein or creatine… Any of those 3 simple things motivate me and make me anxious to get into my next workout. But overall I would say, don’t overlook the value a trainer can add to your plan when you’re facing lack of motivation.
What is the most common gym mistake?
Improper form, poor lifting technique. These mistakes are not only common but can be deadly. The last thing you want to do is get hurt in the gym, because then you’re out of the gym and trying to work around chronic, nagging injuries! Learn proper form from a trainer who can help you get great results safely.
Did you know that a brand new person walking into the gym can get eighty percent stronger without building any new muscle… That’s due to form and technique.
Ultimately, though, if you’re in the gym and making mistakes, well, at least you’re in the gym! As I was once told, If you’re not making any mistakes it’s because you’re not trying hard enough! So I give credit to everyone who’s in the gym trying their best. Just remember safety, always.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
Trust and respect. I’ve been at my branch for seven and a half years, and training in Sarasota County for 23. I love it when people walk up to the front desk and say “I want to sign up for training with David Green.” When people ask for me specifically, whom I have never met and tell me they were referred by someone they know… The trust and respect I must develop to get those referrals and return customers is itself very rewarding.
Okay. What’s one last piece of fitness advice for everyone?
Don’t ever quit!
Stay consistent, push through, and don’t quit! You have to learn to get through adversity. Bruce Lee used to say “be like water” — go over the obstacle, or around it, or under it… Water is unstoppable, and it will find a way. You have to do the same. This is a very important discipline to develop If you’re going to enjoy a lifetime of exercise and training.
And one more piece of advice: Find a trainer! Watch the trainers in your gym and see whose style would fit for you, and try working with them for a while. A trainer can teach you so much and help you get through so many obstacles.
I’ve been working out for 47 years and training professionally for 24 years. I have a lot of experience I share with my clients so they don’t have to go through some of the trials I had to go through. Trainers can help you get through obstacles like gym intimidation, lack of motivation, inexperience, and lack of knowledge. They can teach you new ways to accomplish your goals.
There are so many different systems for training in the gym, it’s not all just strength or physique. You can also improve your balance, coordination, your stamina and endurance. Your trainer will help you experience everything the gym has to offer!
Don’t be intimidated… Be motivated! Be consistent and don’t ever quit!
And thank you for reading my blog.
Feeling gym intimidation? Lost motivation? YouFit’s here to help! Our expert personal trainers, like David, will guide you, motivate you, and ensure you never quit on your fitness journey. Visit your local YouFit today and experience the transformation!
