How to Start a Gym Routine in the New Year
Beginning your fitness journey can feel daunting, but with the right approach, it can become an enjoyable and rewarding part of your lifestyle. Whether you're completely new to exercise or returning after a break, we’ll help you with our top 9 tips.
Starting the gym isn't just about physical transformation—it's about investing in your overall wellbeing. Regular exercise can boost your energy levels, improve mental health, enhance sleep quality, and increase confidence in your daily life. The key is to approach your fitness journey with patience, consistency, and self-compassion.
1. Choose the Right Gym
Your choice of gym can significantly impact your fitness success. Consider location carefully—ideally within 15-20 minutes of your home or work, as research shows this makes you more likely to attend regularly. At Macdonald Hotels, our Vital Health & Wellbeing clubs are strategically located across the UK, often in peaceful settings that help you escape the bustle of daily life.
When comparing memberships, look beyond the monthly fee. Consider contract length, joining fees, and what's included in your package. Our flexible membership options include access to premium facilities like our naturally-lit swimming pools, thermal suites, and state-of-the-art Life Fitness equipment. Unlike budget gyms that focus on basic equipment, our clubs offer a comprehensive wellness experience.
2. Start Slowly
The excitement of starting a fitness journey can tempt you to do too much too soon, but this often leads to burnout or injury. Begin with 2-3 sessions per week, keeping workouts to 30-45 minutes. Our Vital Health & Wellbeing clubs offer the perfect starting point, with intuitive cardio equipment and spacious, welcoming environments that help new members feel at ease.
For your first month, aim to master proper form on 4-5 basic exercises rather than trying everything available. Our professional induction sessions will guide you through essential equipment use and proper technique. While it's tempting to invest in expensive workout gear immediately, focus first on comfortable clothes and good shoes - save the extras for when you've established your routine.
3. Ask for Help
Studies show that gym-goers who receive proper instruction are much more likely to reach their fitness goals. At Macdonald Hotels' Vital Health & Wellbeing clubs, our expert leisure staff are trained to provide comprehensive support. Don't feel embarrassed about asking questions—even our most experienced members seek advice to improve their technique.
Take advantage of our complimentary induction sessions, where we'll guide you through our Life Fitness equipment and create a personalised plan aligned with your goals. For more focused attention, our professional personal trainers can provide thorough form checks and customised programming.
4. Consider Your Goals
Setting appropriate goals is crucial for long-term success. Whether you're aiming to swim confidently in our pools, join our energetic Les Mills classes, or build strength in our gym, we'll help you create achievable targets. Our staff can help you develop SMART goals that align with your aspirations, whether that's improving general fitness or preparing for a specific event.
We recommend reassessing your goals every couple of months. Many members find that access to our varied facilities—from pools to thermal suites—helps them maintain interest and motivation by offering a more holistic environment to achieve their fitness goals.
5. Stay Consistent
Consistency trumps intensity when building fitness habits. Our Vital Health & Wellbeing clubs offer flexible opening hours to accommodate your schedule, whether you're an early riser or prefer evening workouts. With multiple membership options, including our Ultimate membership that provides access to all facilities, you can create a routine that fits your lifestyle.
Make exercise non-negotiable by scheduling regular sessions. Many members find success by combining gym workouts with our group exercise classes or swimming. Our clubs' peaceful settings and luxury amenities make it easier to maintain consistency—you're not just coming to exercise, but to enjoy a premium wellness experience.
6. Remember Rest and Recovery
Proper recovery is as important as the workout itself. Our clubs are uniquely equipped to support your recovery with extensive thermal facilities. After training, take advantage of our saunas and steam rooms to help ease muscle tension, or enjoy a gentle swim in our pools to promote active recovery.
For ultimate relaxation, book a treatment in our ELEMIS and ishga spa rooms. Remember that recovery isn't just physical—our tranquil relaxation areas provide the perfect space to unwind mentally. We recommend alternating between high-intensity gym sessions and gentler activities like our Vital Aquafit classes to maintain a balanced routine.
7. Consider Hydration and Diet
Proper nutrition and hydration directly impact your exercise performance and recovery. We provide water stations throughout our facilities and our staff can advise on optimal hydration strategies for different types of workouts. After exercise, our on-site restaurants offer nutritious options perfect for post-workout refuelling.
For longer training sessions, particularly in our pools or during intensive classes, we recommend bringing sports drinks to maintain electrolyte balance. Our lounges provide the perfect setting to enjoy your post-workout nutrition while overlooking our beautiful grounds.
8. Track Your Progress
Monitoring your fitness journey provides motivation and helps identify effective strategies. Our staff can help you establish baseline measurements and regular check-ins to track your progress. Whether you're monitoring swim times, tracking strength improvements, or measuring cardiovascular fitness, we provide the tools and support to document your journey.
Many members find our comprehensive facilities make it easier to maintain varied fitness records. From logging pool laps to recording group class achievements, you can build a complete picture of your improving fitness across different activities.
9. Enjoy the Process
Finding enjoyment in exercise significantly increases long-term adherence. Our Vital Health & Wellbeing clubs are designed to make fitness enjoyable, offering a luxury environment that elevates your workout experience. Whether you're swimming in our naturally-lit pools, participating in engaging group classes, or working out with our premium equipment, you'll find multiple ways to make exercise enjoyable.
Create variety in your routine by exploring all our facilities have to offer. Many members start with one activity, such as gym workouts, and gradually incorporate swimming, classes, and wellness activities as their confidence grows. Remember, your membership gives you access to a complete wellness journey, not just a standard gym experience.
Here at Macdonald Hotels' Vital Health & Wellbeing clubs, we're committed to supporting your fitness journey every step of the way. Our state-of-the-art facilities, expert staff, and welcoming atmosphere provide the perfect environment to implement these tips and achieve your wellness goals.
Our Vital Health & Wellbeing clubs feature modern Life Fitness equipment, swimming pools with natural daylight, and relaxing thermal facilities including saunas and steam rooms. Our professional team offers comprehensive inductions and ongoing support to ensure you feel confident and comfortable throughout your fitness journey.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to enhance your existing routine, we offer flexible membership options to suit your needs. Visit us today to discover how we can help you achieve your fitness aspirations in luxurious and supportive surroundings.
