03/22/2023
DON’T BE AFRAID OF TAKING UP SPACE
“I wish someone had told me that it’s OK to ask other people how many sets they have left, [rather than wait around for equipment],” responded gym user Heather Finnamore. “It’s your gym too – not just for muscley men.”
This is such an important – but often overlooked – aspect of training. You are a paying member and have every right to access whatever kit you need or want. “Taking up space is so important for women. Making use of the areas that are traditionally male-dominated will benefit you – weight-bearing activity is so important for us all to do.
“Asking someone when they’re done isn’t rude or awkward – if anything, it will probably mean that they are a bit more efficient with their training to get the kit over to you faster than if you just waited by the side. You deserve that, you shouldn’t be wasting your precious training time,” agrees Obayuvana. “Let’s be honest, they probably won’t become your best friend, but sparking up that conversation might mean they become someone you can smile and nod at, meaning you feel a bit more relaxed in the gym.”
GET A GYM KIT THAT MAKES YOU FEEL CONFIDENT
What you wear to the gym matters. Not from a fashion perspective, but for your confidence, comfort and performance. While all you really need for a good workout is some leggings, a bra, a top and some trainers, it’s the type that really matters.
“Wearing the right sports bra is hugely important, because we need that support for health reasons and to stop us from feeling self-conscious,” says Obayuvana. There’s no shame in caring about your kit, either. “Getting leggings and other pieces of kit that fit perfectly and that you love the look of is motivating and gives you a self esteem boost.”
The right kit also entails a pair of headphones that won’t fall out during burpees and any resistance bands or weight lifting kit that isn’t provided at your gym. “Always bring a change of underwear,” said one respondee whose sessions involve both the gym and swimming. “Honestly, there’s nothing worse than getting out of the pool and having to put your sweaty gym pants back on.”
“Forgetting an item of clothing can easily ruin your day,” agrees Andrews. “My advice is to prepare the night before and plot out what you’ll need. It’ll give you time to charge your fitness tech, too. Perhaps most importantly, make sure you don’t forget your toiletries. We’ve all become accustomed to the mindset of ‘everything I need is around me’ when exercising at home, and this can quickly trip you up if you forget your deodorant and hair products before a busy day at work.”
