Connect with us

Health

How to Survive Your First Gym Experience: A Beginner’s Guide

Published

on

My first day at the gym was a nightmare. Everyone seemed to be looking at me!

I was insecure, skinny, and clueless. I desperately wanted to look like I knew what I was doing. Asking for help? No way. I had no idea where to start, but I knew exactly where I wanted to end up: bigger, athletic & shredded.

Maybe you’re in the same boat. Perhaps you want to shed some extra weight and look aesthetic. Or you’re still at home, thinking of joining a gym, but have no clue where to start. The millions of exercises and countless fitness guides around the web already overwhelm you.

Having been consistent for a year now, and while I’m still a beginner, my physique has transformed. I’m confident enough to offer you a walkthrough on the basic principles of gym life offered by fellow gym bros. It will give you the confidence to take that first step through the gym door and set you up on a growing curve.

Beginner’s Simple Gym Guide Chart

1. Consistently Show Up

The most important part of your fitness journey is simply showing up. It doesn’t matter if you’re lifting weights or just figuring out how to use the treadmill. Consistency is key. So, commit to showing up whether your last workout was wack, everyone was looking at you, or you haven’t recovered from body aches.

2. Know The Different Muscle Groups

Your body comprises various muscle groups; working them all is essential to achieving a balanced physique. The major groups include chest, back, legs, shoulders, arms & core. Now, know where each exercise specifically targets.

3. Differentiate Sets & Reps

“Sets” and “reps” are gym code words you’ll need to understand. A rep (repetition) is 1 complete motion of an exercise, while a set is a group of consecutive reps. For example, if you do 10 push-ups, take a break, and do another 10, you’ve completed 2 sets of 10 reps each. Simple.

4. How Many Days In a Week?

Decide how many days a week you can realistically commit to the gym. Whether it’s 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 days, consistency matters. If you’re new to working out, start with 2 or 3 days a week and gradually increase as your fitness improves.

5. Understand Your Body Goals

Before you start carrying weights, it’s crucial to understand what you want to achieve. Do you want to build muscle (hypertrophy), increase your strength, or lose fat? Each goal requires a different approach:

  • Hypertrophy: Focus on moderate weights and higher reps (8-12).
  • Strength: Go for heavier weights and lower reps (1-6).
  • Fat Loss: Combine weight lifting with cardio.

You can mix and match different approaches or stick to one, but knowing your goals will help you tailor your workouts and stay motivated.

6. Find a Program

Your workout program should match your goals and schedule. If you aim for hypertrophy, consider a split routine targeting different muscle groups on other days. If you’re short on time, a full-body workout might be the way to go. Remember, the specific program matters less than having a consistent schedule you stick to for a few months to track your progress.

7. Focus on Compound Exercises

Compound exercises are great because they involve multiple muscles simultaneously, thus improving overall muscle coordination. They also save you time in the gym. Here are a few to get started with:

8. Master Workouts Technique

Proper technique on each exercise is crucial to avoid injury and target the intended muscle group. Watch YouTube videos or ask the trainer how to perform a particular exercise. Most people are happy to help a newbie.

9. Workout Intensely

Intensity is what matters most in training. Even as you work smart, remember the importance of working hard. Watch out for these to make sure you push yourself:

  • Number of Sets: Estimate how many sets you do per weekly muscle group. Aim for 9-14 sets for each muscle group for overall muscle building.
  • Increasing Weight: Gradually & safely add more weight each week to increase intensity.
  • Increasing Reps: If 8 reps of squats are easy, try scaling up to 15 reps in your next workout.

10. Prioritize Rest

Rest is essential for recovery & performance. When you work out, your muscles experience tiny tears that need time to heal and grow stronger. Have off days during the week & maximize your sleep quality.

Fitness Masterclass You Might Wanna Check Out. You’ll NOT NEED ANOTHER, I promise!

Now You’re Ready!

With this basic building block on the essentials of the gym community, I summon thee to go forth and conquer!

Health

Let’s Get Mind, Body and Spirit Aligned!

Published

on

What if I told you there was a way for you to switch it all up—mind, body, and spirit—without getting too woo-woo? Yup, do you know about holistic health, syncing your mental, physical, and emotional well-being? Sounds like a vibe, right? Hear me out.

1. Mind: Your Mental Playground

Your mind is like a garden—what you plant is what grows. If you’re feeding it negative thoughts and stress, don’t be surprised when you’re feeling down and stressed or find yourself at your local. It’s time to flip the script.

Start small: daily affirmations, a quick meditation sesh, or even journaling out your feelings. Keep that mental energy high, and watch how it changes your game.

2. Body: The Real MVP (Most Valuable Player)

You know the drill—your body is your temple, but are you really treating it like one? Holistic health isn’t just about hitting the gym; it’s about moving your body in ways that feel good to you.

Whether it’s yoga, dance, or just a walk in the park, get that body moving. And let’s not sleep on the fuel—eat whole foods that nourish you from the inside out. Your body’s your ride through life; give it the premium gas it deserves.

3. Spirit: The Vibe Setter

Now, this might be where some of y’all get sceptical, but stick with me. Your spirit is your inner vibe, the energy that keeps you grounded. It’s about finding what centers you—maybe it’s a spiritual practice, or just spending time in nature. Whatever fills your cup, do more of that.

Your spirit’s compass guides you to a life that feels right, not just looks right.

4. The Power of Balance

Holistic health is all about balance. When your mind, body, and spirit are aligned, you’re unstoppable. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being aware and making choices that keep you in sync. Life’s gonna throw you off balance sometimes, but when you know how to realign, you’ll always find your way back.

So, there you have it—holistic health in a nutshell. It’s not some out-there concept; it’s about living a life where all parts of you thrive together. Start with one small change today, and let’s get that mind, body, and spirit in harmony. You got this!

Continue Reading

Health

Fuel Your Future with Healthy Eating Habits in Your 20s

Published

on

Your 20s are an exciting time of exploration, growth, and establishing habits that will last a lifetime. Among these, developing healthy eating habits is crucial and therefore should be intentional. What you eat now lays the foundation for your future health and well-being. Whether you’ll be those guys who retire at 60 or those whose lives start at 60. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the world of nutrition and make smart choices that will fuel your body and mind.

1. Prioritise Whole Foods

First and foremost, aim to prioritise whole foods. These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Whole foods are packed with nutrients that are essential for your body. They help you feel full longer and provide sustained energy. Think of meals that are colourful and varied – the more colours on your plate, the more nutrients you’re likely getting.

2. Stay Hydrated

Hydration is often overlooked but is vital for maintaining overall health. Drinking enough water supports your metabolism, aids in digestion, and keeps your skin looking fresh. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day. If plain water isn’t your thing, try infusing it with fruits like lemon or berries for a flavour boost.

3. Balance Your Macronutrients

A balanced diet includes the right proportions of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Carbohydrates are your body’s main source of energy, so opt for complex carbs like brown rice, and oats. Proteins are crucial for muscle repair and growth; sources include chicken, fish and beans. Healthy fats, found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil, are essential for brain health and hormone production.

4. Don’t Skip Breakfast

Breakfast is often touted as the most important meal of the day, and for good reason. Eating a nutritious breakfast kickstarts your metabolism and provides energy for the day ahead. Choose balanced meals like oatmeal with fruits and nuts, whole-grain toast with avocado, or a smoothie packed with greens, fruits, and a protein source.

5. Practice Portion Control

In your 20s, it’s easy to get carried away with large portions, especially when eating out. Practising portion control helps prevent overeating and maintains a healthy weight. Try using smaller plates, serving yourself reasonable portions, and listening to your body’s hunger cues. Remember, it’s okay to leave food on your plate if you’re full.

6. Limit Processed Foods

Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium. They can contribute to weight gain, poor energy levels, and long-term health issues. While it’s okay to enjoy these foods occasionally, try to limit your intake. Focus on fresh, natural foods that nourish your body.

7. Snack Smart

Snacking can be part of a healthy diet if done correctly. Choose snacks that provide nutrients rather than empty calories. Great options include nuts, yoghurt, fruit, and vegetables. These snacks help maintain your energy levels and keep you satisfied between meals.

8. Cook at Home

Cooking at home gives you control over what you eat and how it’s prepared. It’s often healthier and more cost-effective than eating out. Start with simple recipes and gradually experiment with new ingredients and cooking methods. Home-cooked meals can be both nutritious and delicious.

9. Be Mindful of Alcohol Intake

Yap! While enjoying the occasional drink is fine, being mindful of your alcohol intake is crucial. Alcoholic beverages can be high in empty calories and can affect your metabolism. Try to limit your consumption and opt for lower-calorie options when you do indulge, the goal is to have fun, not ruin the future.

10. Plan and Prep Meals

Meal planning and prepping can save you time and ensure you have healthy options available. Spend a little time each week planning your meals and preparing ingredients. This helps you avoid the temptation of unhealthy fast food and makes it easier to stick to your nutrition goals.

11. Listen to Your Body

Finally, listen to your body’s signals. Eat when you’re hungry, and stop when you’re full. Pay attention to how different foods make you feel. Your body knows what it needs, and tuning into those signals can help you make better dietary choices.

Adopting healthy eating habits in your 20s sets the stage for a vibrant and healthy future. Prioritising whole foods, staying hydrated, balancing macronutrients, and being mindful of your portions and choices are key steps. By making these habits a part of your routine, you’re investing in your long-term health and well-being. So, start today and fuel your future with the best nutrition possible.

Continue Reading

Health

7 Powerful Ways to Make YouTube Work for You

Published

on

YouTube Turned My Life Around. Seriously!

10 years ago, I was just a kid who wanted unlimited coins for my phone games. Guess where I found out how to get them?

YouTube.

Yep, it showed me how to root my device and unlock everything I ever wanted. I felt like a hacker!

Fast forward to our last year of high school, my friends and I decided we wanted to study the Bible more deeply and live a genuine Christian life.

But where could we possibly go for that?

Then came the phase where I wanted to sound more articulate, fancied myself a digital minimalist, got curious about lifestyle medicine, wanted to dress better (so I looked more confident and approachable).

Write more effectively, lift heavy weights, almost perfect my swimming strokes, and even get some dating advice.

Where did I turn to?

Yet, YouTube May Feel Like A Bottomless Pit Of Content

With its overwhelming amount of information, you might end up drowning in cat videos and celebrity gossip when all you wanted was to learn how to cook pasta that doesn’t stick together like glue.

But, if used intentionally, it’s like having a personal tutor for everything you’ve ever wanted to learn, and the best part?

FOR FREE!!

And so, I’m here to convince you

How You Can Make YouTube Your Personal Self-Improvement Tool That Works For You!

Turning you into the fascinating, well-rounded genius you’ve always dreamed of being.

Can’t eat your own cooked food? Let me show you how YouTube can turn you into the family’s star chef—or hey, maybe even help you finally find a man (because who doesn’t love a good cook?)

Need help to budget? Still haven’t figured out how to get your grades up?

Wanna take better pictures, or develop an obsession with reading?

Learn Chinese so that you can speak with half the world?

Or bake the perfect cake for your mom’s 60th birthday to remind her she’s still the best thing that ever happened to you—even though you’ve never known how to use an oven?

Here’s how.

1. Clean Up Your Subscription List and Algorithm So That YouTube Works For You, Not Against You

Intentionally subscribe to channels that align with your goals and unsubscribe from those that don’t.

Avoid mindless scrolling, as it can lead to unproductive content being suggested.

Instead, support the videos you enjoy by liking, sharing & commenting, to get similar recommendations.

Do this consistently for 3 months, and watch as YouTube algorithm transforms into a personal self-development assistant tailored to your needs.

2. Create Playlists To Organize Content

Whether it’s long-form lectures, tutorials, or videos recommended by friends, categorize them into playlists for easy access.

This simple habit saves you time and prevents the frustration of searching for that one video you need among a sea of irrelevant content.

3. Set Consistent Time Limits To Plan Your YouTube learning

Whether it’s 30 minutes a day or 1 hour every weekend.

Consistent, shorter sessions are more effective than binge-watching for hours on end, which can turn your active learning into passive viewing.

Remember, the goal is to absorb and apply what you’ve learned, not to turn YouTube into another source of entertainment.

4. Have Specific Daily/Weekly/Monthly Goals

Don’t just watch anything—dedicate time to a particular theme or subject, and immerse yourself fully.

When a video points you to further resources, follow up with research.

If you encounter something challenging, take the time to understand it thoroughly before moving on.

This approach ensures that you’re consolidating your knowledge and making the most of your watch time.

YouTube

5. Engage with Content Actively To Learn Deeply

Take notes, pause to reflect, and try out what you’ve learned in real life.

Active participation solidifies your learning.

Use flashcards, share insights with friends, write about your experiences, and apply your new skills in everyday life.

6. Explore New Interests To Meet New Challenges and Opportunities To Grow

Don’t be afraid to dive into topics you’ve been curious about but haven’t yet explored.

That’s how you might discover your interest in exercise and stay consistent for a year plus.

You never know where a new interest might lead—it could even become your next passion or career path.

7. Treat Your YouTube Learning Time Like Class Time

Silence notifications and focus entirely on the content.

The Pomodoro technique is a great way to structure your sessions—study for 20-30 minutes, then take 5-minute break intervals.

Use breaks to recharge, not to distract yourself.

Whether it’s tidying up your room, doing a quick workout, or reading a few pages of a book, make sure your break activities help you return to your study session refreshed and ready to learn, not tired and distracted that you dread your next study session.

YouTube

The Next Time You Open YouTube, Ask Yourself, “Am I Here To Grow?”

Practice intentionality, seek out content that aligns with your goals, and use this powerful tool to learn, grow, and thrive.

In doing so, you’ll find that YouTube isn’t just a place for entertainment—it’s a platform that can help you become the best version of yourself.

So why not block 20 minutes today to learn about the correlation between Sex & Mental Health?

Continue Reading

Trending