For many of us, the holiday season often translates into a plethora of baked goods and seven course meals. With unwanted pounds lingering in the near future, this may be the perfect time to hit the gym. While going to the gym for the first time or starting to go after a long absence can often be intimidating, why not take advantage of the gym at your apartment complex? Apartment fitness centers are convenient, free and typically less crowded. Don’t to be intimidated; here are a few tips to help you look and feel like a natural!

Fashion Ground

There is no need to spend your Holiday gift money on expensive workout accessories; loose fitting, comfortable clothing is all you need. Wear your sneakers, bring your water bottle and a towel for your forehead, and you will fit right in! An energetic workout mix is optional, but always helps the time fly by.

Common Courtesy

Bring a large towel to wipe down equipment after you use it. Take your time on the machines and don’t feel pressure to rush or strain your muscles, but don’t be an equipment hog either. If someone is waiting for a machine and you are done using it, catch your breath somewhere else. Turn off that cell phone! No one wants to hear your personal conversations while they are trying to focus.

Equipment Savvy

Don’t be intimidated by complicated looking equipment machines. Low impact cardio machines like treadmills and stationary bikes work well to raise your heart rate and burn maximum calories. Combo cardio machines such as stair masters and elliptical trainers combine traditional cardio benefits with moderate weight resistance for an all-over workout. Weight machines are great for building muscle; with adjustable weight, you control the resistance. Inclined boards, floor mats and exercise balls will help you work your abdominal muscles just by using gravitational resistance. If you are not sure how to use any of the machine or equipment properly, it will be worth your time to read through directions first.

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Taking advantage of your apartment fitness center is an easy, less intimidating way to get in shape. Whether you are trying to lose weight, build muscle or just fend off those dreaded holiday pounds, you can live healthy while saving money!