Are any of these common gym mistakes sabotaging your fitness goals?

Showing up to the club and getting your workout in really is half the battle, but that doesn’t mean you should overlook that second half. You want to make sure your time at the club is spent wisely, not falling into bad habits that slow your progress. Correct these gym mistakes and you’ll see better results, faster.

Mistake #1: Going in without a plan

Without a plan, you’re probably wasting valuable time at the club walking around and trying to figure out what you should do. Before you leave home, write out a list of the exercises you’d like to do during your workout and follow it so you stay on track – and make sure to follow us on Instagram where we often share fun workout challenges you can use for inspiration.

If you’re not into planning your own workouts, try our studio fitness classes. With everything from yoga to M7: STRONG, we’re sure to have a workout you’ll love, with instructors who will have all the planning figured out.
 

Mistake #2: Skipping the warm-up

Warming up often feels like something you can just skip, which is why this is such a common gym mistake. Warming up helps prep your muscles and raise your heart rate so your body is prepared for the work ahead—and it can help you perform at a higher level, which leads to better results. Going into a workout “cold” leaves your body at risk for injury.
 

Mistake #3: Improper form

Always remember to check your form! Doing workouts with improper technique will not only mean your workout will be less effective, but it means you’re at a higher risk of injury. If you’re new to an exercise, try practicing the movement in front of a mirror without using weights to make sure you’re performing it correctly.
 

Mistake #4: Doing the same workout every time

We know you have a goal you’re trying to reach, but doing the same workout every time you’re at the club can cause fitness plateaus and overwork your body. You know how they say life is all about balance? An effective fitness routine offers a balance of strength, cardio, and flexibility training. So mix up your strength training with a weekly yoga class, dance workout, or swim.
 

Mistake #5: Never taking a rest day

You’re motivated to work out every day and excited to go to the club—so why should you take a rest day? Pushing your body hard day after day can strain muscles and harm mobility, and you put yourself at risk of injury when you don’t give your body time to heal.
 

We love that you want to spend time at the club—and we’re happy to have you here every day! But instead of hitting the weight room again, find a day or two a week where you can slow down. Spend time in the sauna, steam room, or massage chairs. Go for a gentle swim or a walk on the treadmill. Jump into a restorative yoga class. There are plenty of ways to stay motivated while incorporating rest days.