Having been in the fitness industry for many years, I’ve noticed one common mistake people make from the very start: they don’t begin their fitness journey with the right knowledge. Understanding how your body works is essential for creating a programme that suits your individual needs and goals.
There are four key elements to every exercise: posture, motion, breathing, and stretching.
Do you know how to incorporate all these elements into every exercise you perform?
Do you understand how to recover effectively?
Are you aware of your nutritional needs, including the balance of macronutrients required to achieve your goals?
Addressing these questions is the first step towards success in your fitness journey, eliminating any uncertainty about whether you’re doing the right thing in the gym.
When Should You Start?
The answer is simple: Now. Waiting for Monday, next month, or January won’t magically bring results. If you feel ready to take action for your body and mind, don’t delay—start today.
Many people join a gym without knowing where to begin, only to discover that most gyms don’t necessarily provide the guidance needed to help you exercise correctly or achieve your fitness goals. This is why education is critical. Getting the right information from the start will set the foundation for long-term success.
Building the Right Foundation
Achieving your fitness goals begins with understanding three core elements: nutrition, hydration, and stress management. These are the cornerstones of health and fitness.
Next, you need to determine which exercise programme is best for you. This depends on your current fitness level, overall condition, and—most importantly—your Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR). Without knowing your RMR, it’s easy to design a plan that’s ineffective, unsustainable, and frustrating, wasting both time and money.
For those aiming to lose weight, it’s important to distinguish between weight loss and sustainable weight management. While reducing calorie intake can result in weight loss, many people mistakenly cut out carbohydrates entirely. This isn’t advisable, as healthy carbohydrates provide essential fibre and energy to support daily activities and vital bodily functions.
Before embarking on any nutritional or fitness programme, consult a professional who can calculate your RMR and help determine the right amount of carbohydrates, protein, fat, water, and fibre your body needs.
The Problem With Big Gyms
In the 1990s, the fitness industry experienced rapid growth, leading to a boom in large gyms. While these gyms were profitable, they often sacrificed personal attention and client communication. Over time, many gyms began relying on generic programmes and automated systems, leaving members paying more but receiving less value.
Fitness programmes should be personalised, closely monitored, and adjusted to suit each individual’s needs. This ensures not only the best results but also teaches clients how to care for their body and mind while continually making progress.
The Issue With Personal Trainers
Unfortunately, personal training has also been affected by this profit-driven approach. Many trainers obtain their qualifications through online courses completed in just a few weeks. While some may be knowledgeable, others lack the expertise and passion needed to guide clients effectively.
A good personal trainer will assess your fitness level, body composition, exercise technique, and metabolic capacity in the initial sessions, using this information to create and adjust programmes for safe, effective results.
Should You Cancel Your Gym Membership?
In conclusion, if you aren’t well-versed in fitness, choose wisely when selecting a gym or personal trainer. Not all gyms and trainers have the expertise or commitment to provide the right guidance. Since both gyms and trainers charge for their services, take the time to research the best options for your needs.
Invest in education, personalised programmes, and the right support to achieve your fitness goals effectively and sustainably.
Don’t just pay for a gym membership—pay for progress.
If You Want Real Progress, It’s Time to Train With Alen at The Shed
Your Space. Your Goals. Your Results.
Are you tired of the noise, crowds, and distractions of commercial gyms?
At The Shed, we’ve created a private, results-driven training space built with one goal in mind: helping you achieve the body and confidence you deserve.
With Alen, our in-house personal trainer, you’ll receive:
✅ 100% Dedication – Focused 1:1 coaching tailored entirely to you
✅ Proven Expertise – Decades of experience working with bodybuilding champions, elite conditioning coaches, and clients just like you
✅ Sustainable Progress – A pace and plan that works for your body, your goals, and your lifestyle
This isn’t just training; it’s a transformational experience designed to get you the results you’ve always wanted—without the overwhelm of a busy gym.
Start With a Complimentary 15-Minute Consultation
Your journey starts here. Let’s discuss your goals, create a plan, and take the first step toward your best self.
