Did you know that the National Guidelines on Physical Activity for Ireland state that adults should exercise for a minimum of 30 minutes a day, five days a week? If you can’t stand the idea of the treadmill, get your 30-minute fix another way that’s proven to be more fun than exercising on your own on a step machine – fitness classes. If you’ve never taken a Dublin fitness class before, don’t worry – here are some tips to get the most out of this enjoyable way to get fit. You could pick up some tips that will make the class more effective and enjoyable.
- Tell the Instructor You’re New
You may not want to draw attention to yourself as a newbie but it is best if you let the instructor know you are new to the class, or new to fitness, before you start. Turn up a few minutes early before the class starts so that the instructor can tell you what equipment you will be using, or anything to watch out for if you are new to exercise.
- Pick Your Position Carefully
If you are new to one of the fitness classes Dublin offers, don’t hide yourself at the back of the room. The instructor can’t see you there, and won’t be able to see if you are doing one of the exercises wrong, or help you out if you need extra guidance. But don’t stand at the front because then you won’t be able to follow anyone else in the class – it helps when you are new to watch and learn from people who have been doing it for ages. Stand in the middle row, in the middle of the room – this is your prime position to see, be seen, and pick up tips from others.
- Don’t Do Too Much
It can be tempting to push yourself to keep up with the rest of the class but if you are a beginner you may not be able to match them for speed or agility. Don’t do something you are not ready for. For example, the spinning classes Dublin offers can be incredibly intense. If you are new to exercise or new to spinning, take a beginners class first to warm up and get used to the routines and the techniques. Gyms like http://iconhealthclub.ie have a range of classes for beginners as well as classes for more experienced gym bunnies – pick your level and you can always move up when you are ready.
- Follow Your Own Pace
A fitness class in one of the gyms in Dublin city centre is not a competition. You are not there to test yourself against the other gym members. You are there to improve your fitness and have fun. If you start to feel sick, take a break. If it’s getting too much, sit out this round of exercises. Make sure you drink plenty of water and don’t exercise if you are ill. An instructor is there to help you but at the end of the day it is up to you to take care of your health and wellbeing.
