Bodybuilder's Really Aren't Assholes- New Years Tips for Newcomers and Seasoned Bodybuilders

For many of my fit and competitive friends and followers, we all dread the gym rush and population explosion within the gym for the next few months as New Years resolutions are made and newcomers of every shape and size join the gym environment to jumpstart on their new fitness journeys.  As much as many of us may dread the overcrowded gyms for the time being, I am asking everyone to remember your first time in the gym. The  intimidation factor, the lost look you had when exploring how to do each exercise without looking like an idiot, the hopelessness as you compared yourself to the surrounding athletes who have been seasoned in the gym for some time.

Do me a favor, do yourself a favor and welcome the newcomers in with open arms. The thing I hate hearing most as a personal trainer from my clients, is the fact that the gym Intimidated them because of the types of people working out and making comments to the newcomers at the gym.  I spend more time as a trainer helping people get into their comfort zone in the gym, than actually lifting due to the fact that they are terrified of being judged by others.

If someone asks how to use a machine,  take a minute and show them how to use it properly. The overweight person on the cardio equipment? Strike up a quick conversation and offer some inghtful advice to help them stay motivated throughout the year.  The bodybuilding community has a very gray reputation, as some of us are known as motivators and inspirational drivers, others are known as douchbags and ego lifters. Let's keep the positive vibes within the community and show the gyms and people within the community that bodybuilders and fitness gurus are loving, caring and helpful people.

To the current gym athletes - Don't be a stuck up asshole. Don't ego lift or mean mug just to intimidate new members, who knows one day you could be on stage next to them.

For those of you starting your new years with a lack of direction,  here are a few simple tools to get you started:

- Create a goal each week and stick to it. So if your goal is to lift 3 days and do 2 rounds of cardio, keep yourself accountable.  The first few weeks are the most challenging, but if you stay consistent and on a routine your body will adapt and changes will begin to happen

- Find accountability.  If you have some additional money, invest in a personal trainer. They will help you reach your goals faster, help you stay accountable and give you workouts to follow on your own. A nutrition coach also is a wise investment if you have the money, shoot me a message if you need a referral for some great coaches to work with.

- Clean out temptation.  Rid your home of anything that will tempt you from diet destruction. Any foods that can trigger a binge or ruin your diet throw them away.

- Invest in quality supplements and vitamins.  Protein, preworkout, creatine,  Bcaa's and vitamins are essential to helping your body reach the goals (see my blog post on Titan Nutrition) for a detailed description of what each supplement does. Click here to explore, order and sample Titan Nutrion Supplements. They are the only company I use and trust to reach my goals. Use discount code SHANNON for 20% off your entire order.

- Don't give up. Change takes time, consistency and patience.