Congratulations!  You\u2019ve decided to add strength training into your fitness program!!  Now you\u2019re ready to reap all the health benefits that come from pushing, pulling, curling & extending a few plates, bars & dumbbells!  But where to start??  Although I\u2019ve spent years in weight rooms, I recognize that they can be rather intimidating places.  To get you squared away, here are a few tips to help make the weight room your new home. Enjoy!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Weight Room Guide:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

1. Don’t crowd the <\/strong>dumbell<\/strong> racks.<\/strong>  My Pet Peeve #1 \u2013 Folks who stand a half step away from the racks.  Take your dumbbells & move away so that others can get in.<\/li>
2. Clean up your sweat.<\/strong>  All gyms provide cleaner & towels to wipe down equipment after using it.  Don\u2019t be \u201cthat guy\u201d that leaves a pool of sweat on the bench!<\/li>
3. Put your toys away<\/strong>.  Your mom was right!  After you use the dumbbells, plate weights, bands, ball, whatever\u2026put it back.<\/li>
4. Linger\u2026look\u2026ask.<\/strong>  Inevitably there will be a piece of equipment that looks like it might be in use.  Maybe they\u2019re getting a drink or maybe they didn\u2019t do #3!  To solve, stand next to the equipment, look around, ask fellow lifters.  If they say \u201cno\u201d & you don\u2019t see anyone running toward you, you\u2019re good to go!<\/li>
5. Don\u2019t hog equipment.<\/strong>  My Pet Peeve #2 \u2013 Someone sitting on a machine resting AND TEXTING\u2026  If you want to do either, offer to let people \u201cwork in\u201d.  That way everybody\u2019s happy \u2013 one rests (and texts) & one lifts.<\/li>
6. \u201cHow many sets do you have left?\u201d<\/strong>  If someone\u2019s using equipment that you need, don\u2019t just stand & stare at them.  Ask this question!  They may let you work in while they rest\u2026or you may need to adjust your program & come back later. <\/li>
7. Ask for help.<\/strong>  If you are unsure how to do a lift or use a machine, just ask!  The gym\u2019s Personal Trainer are there to help.  It\u2019s also a great way to meet fellow lifters who will happily set you straight rather than watch you get hurt.<\/li>
8. Meet people.<\/strong>  If you go to the gym at the same time, you\u2019ll start to see the same people.  If you\u2019re friendly these folks can become your 2nd family.  Smile, chat & engage\u2026just not while they\u2019re trying to lift!<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n

   Cheers,
   Coach Michelle<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

   Congratulations!  You\u2019ve decided to add strength training into your fitness program!!  Now you\u2019re ready to reap all the health benefits that come from pushing, pulling, curling & extending a few plates, bars & dumbbells!  But where to start??  Although I\u2019ve spent years in weight rooms, I recognize that they can be rather intimidating places.  To<\/p>\n

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