Did you know that many older adults resist joining a gym because they feel they are not in good enough shape? It may seem odd, and perhaps a bit silly, given the reason for joining a gym is to get in shape. However, when you consider how people feel about their bodies and how they think they are perceived by others, it should come as no surprise that many people, including many older adults, put off going to the gym until they are in shape, or atleast when their self-esteem will allow them to.
The only problem is that if you could get in shape without joining a gym and undertaking a more regimented schedule of physical activity, you probably would have and would not need the gym in the first place. So what's the solution? Bite the bullet, join a gym and start reaping the rewards.
When you join the right gym for you, which in and of itself is sometimes a challenge, you will be greeted with the courtesy, support, and expertise to assist you in achieving your goals. When shopping around for a gym, take your time, avoid the normal pressure tactics sometimes employed, and make a decision based on comfort and confidence, rather than price and scarcity created by the typical gym sales person (i.e. "I only have 3 of these low-priced memberships left..."). Visit the gym at the time you intend on using it, and observe who is at the front desk, who is using the facility, and what programs are being offered.
Not all gyms are designed to meet the needs of older adults. You should expect the higher level of respect and attention you deserve, and if you are not getting it, you should look elsewhere.
Regardless of which gym you decide to join, just join one, start working out and start feeling better about yourself. You will feel better about joining after even just one workout, so get started!
About Me
- Rod Macdonald
- With 30 years experience in the field of wellness and self-improvement, Rod is a leading authority on personal and professional change. As a LEADER, Rod has helped numerous organizations to be their best both big and small. From not-for-profit national organizations to for-profit international companies, he has influenced tens of thousands of people to positively transform their lives and the lives of those around them. As a SPEAKER, Rod has helped people be their best through spoken word, delivering his message on stages at events in the US, Australia, New Zealand, China, as well as across Canada. As a COACH, Rod has helped people move from where they are to where they want to be, personally and professionally. In Rod’s opinion, coaching is the single most powerful support mechanism an individual or organization can employ to be successful. As an AUTHOR, Rod moves people with written words. Rod co-wrote the best-selling "Foundations of Professional Personal Training", used by more fitness professionals in Canada than any other book. Rod has also contributed hundreds of articles to numerous magazines for over 15 years.