The Ultimate Guide on How to Use Gym Equipment for Beginners

So, you plan to do workouts in the gym, but you don’t know how to use gym equipment.

And, you wouldn’t like to look like you don’t know anything about gym equipment. How can you sweat this out?

Worry not, you’ve come to the right place.

We’ve gathered resources to give you the ultimate guide on how to use gym equipment as a beginner so you can have confidence even if you’ve never set foot in a gym before.

We know how intimidating it can be to set foot in the gym for the first time and how gym equipment can seem a little overwhelming.

This guide will introduce you to the basics of gym equipment and how to use them properly.

How Do I Start Using Gym Equipment?

A most basic rule of gym etiquette is to clean your machines.

Now, this is supposed to be the last tip you will be learning, but it can also be the first.

In case the person who used the equipment before didn’t wipe off his or her sweat after exercising, you can be sure that you are using a clean machine by cleaning it first.

After getting your workout done, don’t forget basic courtesy—take the time to wipe your sweat off the machine.

Proper gym etiquette also includes not crowding anyone out for a safer workout and putting things back where they belong.

Here are more ways on how to maintain your fitness equipment.

What Gym Equipment Should a Beginner Use?

Learning the ropes of basic gym equipment is your next big step when you step foot in a gym for the first time.

You will see a lot of fitness equipment when you first walk into the gym. It might get confusing which one you should try first.

To ease you from your worries, here are a few common pieces of gym equipment that you will encounter:

Cardio Machines

These fitness machines are best for losing weight and strengthening your heart and lungs.

Examples of these machines that you will find in the gym are:

• Treadmill

This is a running machine that can provide a great workout to improve your cardiovascular strength.

You can adjust the incline and pace depending on your fitness goals.

• Elliptical Cross Trainer

A gym equipment a beginner should use in the gym is this dual-action trainer that works both your upper and lower body.

• Rowing Machine

If you aim for a full-body workout, this fantastic machine can do the job.

Workouts on this machine put emphasis on your core and melt fat away as your movements simulate the movement of a rower’s body.

• Exercise Bike

This is a sit-down cardio machine that works all of your leg muscles with the goal of increasing resistance and strengthening and toning your legs.

• Stair Climber

Similar to a treadmill, but you climb up steps working every muscle in your legs while being easy on your joints.

Resistance Machines

These pieces of gym equipment will help build strength and muscle mass. It is also used to tone muscles.

Examples of this type of workout machines are:

• Chest Press

You sit at a 45-degree incline to engage your upper chest muscles without feeling overwhelmed.

• Bicep Curl

If you want to tone and develop your upper-arm muscles, this machine will help you achieve that goal as it was designed for isolated workouts for your biceps.

• Cable Machine

Build your strength without the rigidness of similar gym equipment. This machine can be used to work your triceps, biceps, chest, and more.

• Leg Press

Shape your behind with this machine. This equipment that is beginner-friendly is used by pushing your feet against a selected weight thereby building your muscles and toning your legs.

What Should I Do First at the Gym?

To get the confidence you need even if it’s your first time at the gym, don’t forget these tips as part of the ultimate guide on how to use gym equipment for beginners in doing workouts at the gym:

1. Adjust the machine so that it is comfortable and safe for you to use.
2. Start light until you get used to the movement of the gym equipment you are using. Focus on performing your exercise properly first.
3. Make sure that you are performing your exercises with good form so that you will get optimal results and prevent injury.

Smashing Your Fitness Goals in the Gym

Now that you have an idea about how to use gym equipment for beginners, you can pack your gym bag and start smashing your fitness goals with your very own beginner’s workout.

Follow a structured plan that is personalized and designed around your fitness goals to make the most out of your workouts with gym equipment.

More from Fitness Expo

How to Save on Fitness Equipment
The Best Tips on Buying Fitness Equipment

Fitness Expo caters to all your exercise needs from treadmills to fitness accessories.

First opened in 1980 by the Rice family, the store continues to offer the top brands and largest selection of exercise equipment for the home or commercial facility making it one of the oldest and most reputable fitness retailers in the country.

We have showrooms across Louisiana and Mississippi, but you can also shop on our website from the comfort of your own home. Contact us now!