There’s nothing worse than feeling motivated and ready to work out, then going to the gym and finding out it’s crowded. Motivation dives when you see the equipment you were hoping to use all filled, and you may stare out at the crowd wondering where you can squeeze in to get your workout. When you’re trying to workout at a crowded gym, you need to have a plan to get in, get fit, and get out efficiently. Perhaps the frustration gets to you and you leave, feeling dejected and disappointed. A lot of people have been there, and although it seems daunting and disappointing, you can still have a great workout, even if it’s not according to plan.
With the new year coming and resolutions about to hit, you can believe your gym is about to be crowded, so pay attention! Read on for some tips on how to survive the crowded gym and still get your workout in.
Have a Backup Plan
It feels great to have your workout plan ready, and that may even help you keep up the energy you need to make sure you go to the gym. The trouble with a plan is you can’t count on it if the gym is crowded. You may not have use of the equipment you want, and there’s nothing more downtrodden than having your hopes set on a piece of equipment and seeing it used with a line. The way to curb this disappointment is to have a backup workout plan that doesn’t require the same equipment. This could be going for a jog, using dumbbells, or utilizing the gym pool—which is a great workout in itself. Chances are unless you’re looking into pool financing companies or already have your own, then swimming in a gym pool is better than leaving and not working out at all.
Bring a Friend
Perhaps bringing a friend seems like a bad idea for a crowded gym, but if you look at the upside, you and your friend could keep each other motivated. If you need to find a new workout during the middle of a crowded gym, grab your friend and brainstorm ideas. Do leg or wall squats together. With both of you keeping your eyes out, one of you will spot the equipment when it’s free. Whether you wait on the machines or start doing a workout in one spot in the gym, having a friend can keep you motivated. Options are limitless when it comes to bringing a buddy.
Take a Class
If you want to avoid the disappointment of a crowded gym altogether, then guarantee your spot by registering in a workout class. Whether it’s CrossFit, dance, yoga, or another workout class altogether, this will help you know that you can get your work out no matter what. When you choose a workout class, your motivation and competition kick in, helping you get the full workout you want and need.
Class workouts not only help with motivation, but they can keep you accountable as well. If you go to a class regularly, you can make connections and friends. A class setting can help you reach a full workout. There’s something to be said for having a support group around who all want to achieve the same workout. Not only do you get the support, friendship, and motivation, but if there’s a reason you can’t join in at the gym, then chances are they have the class online. Whether you are in class or at home, you can access your workout.
Final Thoughts
When trying to workout at a crowded gym, your experience may not be what you had planned, but with a bit of creative thinking and backup workouts, you can survive and maybe even thrive. Whether it’s taking a long swim in the gym pool, or jogging around the gym itself, you can find a way to keep that heart rate up and get yourself sweating.
When motivation is on the brink of breaking, plan a day to bring a friend and keep each other motivated. If doing all of those things isn’t your cup of tea, and you prefer to have a guaranteed workout plan, then register for a class. You’ll always know your spot will be open, and a workout will be guaranteed.
