Surviving Overcrowded Gyms Is A No-Sweat With These Practical Tips

Some look to January as THE time to hit the reset button, and to revolutionise their outlook on health and fitness. However, for those regular gym goers, January is often a time of DREAD, for the pure reason that their gym to about to be taken over by New Year resolution members. So, if you are one of these ‘regular gym goers,’ here are our top five tips for surviving your gym this January. Good luck!

#1 Train Outside Of The Busy Periods

Most of us train around our own busy schedules, but if you do have the flexibility to avoid the busy times, then DO IT! These typically are evenings between 5pm – 6:30pm, however some mornings can have an influx of gym goers too. If you are unable to shuffle your training times, as a general rule, attendees tend to drop off from mid week, so hang in there, by Thursday the line for the bench press should be a lot smaller.

#2 Take Your Training Outdoors

Another option, if you are unable to train during the ‘off-peak’ times, is to take your workouts outdoors. Sure, you will have to vary your workout, and focus on mainly body weight exercises (unless you have mobile equipment on hand), but why not make the most of the beautiful Summer weather, and extended daylight hours by starting or finishing your day in the fresh air.

#3  Schedule Your Rest Day For Mondays

There is a saying that states to “never miss a Monday,” but as Monday is typically the busiest day of the week in a gym, it’s a pretty good day to schedule your rest day.

#4 Get a Personal Trainer

There is nothing worse than getting up at 5am for the gym, to walk in and all machines are taken, so you spend what would have been an intense and sweaty workout, walking around the gym, waiting for something to become available. This is where Personal Trainers come in handy.  Whether you are training outdoors, or in a (busy) gym, Personal Trainers know all the tricks and exercises that will guarantee you a wicked workout (despite all the equipment being in use). They are adaptable and are very familiar with the surroundings.

#5 Shower At Home

Battling for the squat rack is one thing, but having to wait around aimlessly in the change rooms waiting for a shower can be painful. So if you do not rely on getting ready at the gym, save yourself some time and hassle, and shower at home!

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AIF

The Australian Institute of Fitness

The Australian Institute of Fitness (AIF) is the largest and longest established fitness training organisation in Australia, with dynamic training methods and expert course coaches nationwide - spanning fitness, massage and nutrition. The AIF qualifies more fitness professionals than any other provider in Australia, as well as offering a broad range of continuing education courses (CEC), upskilling resources and partnership programs for existing industry.