Just lace up your sneakers and get a-moving

I know firsthand how intimidating it is to take your first step into a gym — any gym.

Everyone is moving around on the equipment in what seems to be a well-orchestrated symphony while you are standing by the water fountain, looking lost, wondering what to do, if you wore the right clothes and just where you fit in.

Even the cardio pieces appear to be a robot from a movie — and certainly doesn’t seem to be anything like what you remember from that long-ago high school P.E. class. You aren’t certain whether you step on it, run on it, sit on it, crawl on it and the buttons available to push are endless. Right?

Don’t worry because everyone feels this way at first. No one was born at the gym so don’t be afraid of anyone or any machine. Keep in mind that every facility has qualified trainers to hold your hand every step of the way. They will show you the equipment, free weights and class structure and tell you in great detail what to do. No worries. This may seem overwhelming at first, but, don’t get discouraged. It is a lot easier than it sounds.

Your trainer will provide you with a workout log and write down all the muscles with room under each. Then make notes about each machine such as seat position, back of the seat position, weight and instructions.

Almost all of the machines have their instructions clearly printed on them. If something is unclear to you, be certain to ask someone to show you how to use it. Most facilities will show you how to use all of the equipment when you enroll for free. Knowing how to use everything the gym has to offer will make your workouts better and reduce the chances of getting hurt.

There are many great facilities in the area, do your research and find a location that works for you. There are a lot of qualified professionals in the community willing to help you as well as a slew of online fitness plans. Find what works for you. What are you waiting for? Lace up your sneakers and get moving.

Natalie Dreger is a certified fitness professional and can be reached at www.nataliedreger.com.