Take the first step – not the whole staircase!

“Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.” –anonymous.

January is traditionally a month of new beginnings. Whether you believe in making resolutions or not, the lure and appeal of a brand new month alongside a brand new year can’t help but make you want to make some kind of change, however small. The combination makes for the ultimate fresh start!

There are many ways you can start to make small changes that will make a big difference for your overall well-being. Start adding lemon to your water. Swap cream for milk in your morning coffee. Purposely park your car at the back of the parking lot, or take the stairs instead of the elevator if there’s an option.

If you’ve already committed to your health and fitness in 2012, give yourself a pat on the back. Getting yourself in the door is the first step. The next step is to ensure you are getting the most out of your workouts! Typically, it takes up to 21 days to create habit-forming behaviour. Commit to at least 3 days per week – before or after work – and even if you feel tired and cranky on the way there, push yourself to get to the front door. I promise you’ll feel better afterwards!

One of the best ways to challenge your body is to frequently change the way you workout. Personally, I also feel that I can challenge myself more when I know others are around – or that someone is keeping an eye on what I’m doing! One of the best ways you can get this feeling is by participating in a Group EXercise class. Most Group EXercise classes are included with your membership, and allow you unlimited access to class schedules.

Maybe you’ve been toying with this idea for awhile – or maybe you used to be an avid Group EXercise participant in the past, but have been out of the game for awhile.

Whatever the case, here are a few DO’s and DONT’s for visiting your first class – whether it’s your first class ever, or simply the first time you are trying a new discipline.

DO…

…arrive EARLY! It will give you time to set up and learn about the equipment used, if any.
…speak to the instructor before class. Let them know you have not tried this class (or any class, if that’s the case) so they can give you an overview of what you can expect throughout the next hour.
…have an open mind! Yes, you will probably do some moves that you’ve never done before. Yes, your body may feel strange and confused at times. Use the rule of 3 – try THREE classes before you decide if you like it or not! Chances are, by the third class, you’ll understand the language and names of the exercises, and you’ll follow along like a pro!
…bring a friend! There’s no better way to workout alongside a pal than by bringing him or her to a Group EXercise class. Plus, you may feel better if you have someone else who has never done the class before!

DON’T…

…expect to be a pro the first time! The first class will be like a “warm-up” for your body – help it to understand the moves, and ensure you come back for a second try later in the week.
…arrive LATE! It will make it more difficult for yourself and the instructor if you try to sneak in at the very last minute and avoid admitting that you’re new. (*FYI-There are, at minimum, 2-3 new participants in almost EVERY class I teach. Trust me; you will likely not be the only new participant!)
…give up! Some moves or exercises will take longer for your body to adjust to. This is normal. Keep at it and you will find you get stronger each class!
…WORRY! Your instructor is trained to expect first timers – and he or she will be able to help you along the way!

(A couple more things to DO… Start now. Make a new ending for yourself. Try something new. And most importantly, have FUN!)

Want to give Group EXercise a try?  Find a class near you!

“Take the first step. You don’t have to take the whole staircase, just take the first step.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

Courtney has been working for GoodLife since 2006 in various club roles. She’s now able to manage her true passion in this company – Group Exercise! She oversees the clubs in Peterborough and Cobourg. She also currently teaches BODYPUMP, RPM, BODYATTACK and BODYCOMBAT, and has certifications in CanFitPro FIS and NWS. She’s a regular contributor for the GoodTimes eNewsletter, and has an education background and Honours Degree from the University of Toronto in English Literature. She loves writing almost as much as she loves teaching Group Exercise!