How to get more out of your corporate gym
A Comprehensive Guide.
Corporate gyms are a fantastic perk that many companies offer, providing employees with a convenient and often free way to stay fit. However, not everyone takes full advantage of this benefit. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or just starting your wellness journey, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your corporate gym.
Set Clear Goals
Before you start any workout regimen, it's important to define your fitness goals. Are you looking to lose weight, build muscle, improve cardiovascular health, or simply maintain a healthy lifestyle? Having clear goals will help you create a focused workout plan and track your progress.
Create a Balanced Workout Plan
A well-rounded fitness plan includes a mix of cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and flexibility work. Utilise the different equipment and classes available at your corporate gym to keep your routine varied and engaging. For example: Cardio: Treadmills, stationary bikes, and elliptical machines. -Strength Training: Free weights, resistance machines, and bodyweight exercises. -Flexibility: Yoga mats and stretching areas.
Take Advantage of Group Classes
Many corporate gyms offer group fitness classes, ranging from yoga and Pilates to spinning and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). These classes can be a great way to stay motivated, learn new exercises, and meet colleagues with similar fitness interests. Check the class schedule and try out different options to find what you enjoy the most.
Utilise Professional Guidance
If your corporate gym has personal trainers or fitness experts, take advantage of their knowledge. Even a few sessions with a trainer can provide valuable insights into your form, technique, and workout efficiency. They can also help tailor a program specifically to your goals and fitness level.
Incorporate Fitness Into Your Work Day
Maximise your gym usage by fitting workouts into your work schedule. If possible, plan to exercise during lunch breaks, or arrive early/stay late to get your workout in. This approach can help you maintain a consistent routine without sacrificing your work responsibilities.
Stay Consistent
Consistency is key to achieving long-term fitness results. Aim to visit the gym regularly, whether it’s three times a week or every weekday. Schedule your workouts like you would any important meeting and stick to them as much as possible.
Track Your Progress
Keep a fitness journal or use a fitness app to track your workouts, monitor your progress, and set new goals. Tracking can provide motivation, highlight improvements, and help identify areas that need more attention.
Stay Motivated With Challenges
Many corporate gyms organise fitness challenges and competitions. Participating in these can add a fun, competitive element to your workouts and keep you motivated. Whether it's a step challenge, a weight loss competition, or a team event, these challenges can help you push your limits.
Build a Support System
Working out with colleagues can be a great way to stay motivated and accountable. Find a workout buddy or join a fitness group at work. Encouraging each other and sharing your progress can make your fitness journey more enjoyable.
Focus on Overall Wellness
Remember that fitness is just one aspect of your overall well-being. Pay attention to other factors like nutrition, sleep, and stress management. Many corporate wellness programs offer resources like nutrition counseling, stress reduction workshops, and sleep seminars. Take advantage of these to support your fitness efforts.
Your corporate gym is a valuable resource that can significantly enhance your fitness journey. By setting clear goals, creating a balanced workout plan, utilising available resources, and maintaining consistency, you can make the most out of this benefit. Embrace the opportunity, stay committed, and enjoy the many physical and mental health benefits that come with regular exercise.
If you’re looking for support in optimising your corporate gym - including how to best engage with and motivate your staff to increase usage - get in touch with our team to discuss how we can help.