So you've done the hard part. You've made it to the gym. Finally pieced together the enthusiasm, sacrificed your time and prioritised yourself. But you take a look around and start to question yourself. Assume everyone else knows what they're doing except you, and slowly the enthusiasm you walked in with starts to fade.
You went there with a few ideas floating around your head from an account you follow on Instagram but the self-doubt is starting to creep in. All the fancy machines and different pieces of equipment get confusing and suddenly you feel disheartened. So to avoid embarrassment and just 'be safe' you make the decision to copy what that person's doing over there!!!
Justified in your own mind because they look great, they're using a barbell or they have fancy fitness accessories on. Now, in my experience, I've seen almost everyone getting it wrong at some point. and just because they have a body goals you admire or they're doing exercises that look impressive it doesn't mean they no what they're doing. Avoid copying at all costs.
Instead, get yourself some advice beforehand from a qualified professional or someone you can trust. Give yourself a head start and have a plan that gives you confidence.
Here's a list of 5 reasons why copying someone in the gym can be a bad idea...
Lack of proper form: Copying someone else's form in the gym can lead to improper technique, which can increase the risk of injury. If you are not using the correct form, you are also not getting the maximum benefit from the exercise.
Different fitness levels: People have different fitness levels and abilities, and what may be easy for someone else may be challenging for you. By copying someone else, you may be putting yourself at risk of injury or simply not getting the results you are after.
Individual needs: Everyone has different fitness goals, and what works for someone else may not work for you. It's important to tailor your workout to your own specific needs and goals, rather than copying someone else's routine.
Health concerns: People may have health concerns that you are not aware of, and what they are doing in the gym may not be safe or appropriate for you. It's important to listen to your body and consult with a healthcare professional or fitness trainer to determine the best workout routine for you.
Unsatisfactory results: Copying someone else's workout routine without taking into account your own needs and goals is unlikely to lead to the results you are after. By taking the time to plan your own routine, you can ensure that you are working towards your specific fitness goals.
As a very basic starting point, ensure your plan is simple. Sometimes my workouts consist of one exercise! I simply do more sets. Decide on one or two exercises, ideally compound movements and focus on; technique, tempo, breathing, pause reps and control. Play around the 3-5 Set range and aim for 10-15 Reps each set. Repeat this same exercises each week and gradually apply more weight as you begin to gain confidence.