Is it your first time going to a gym or you just want to know what some of the machines do so you don’t look too lost at a gym? Well here’s a guide to what some of the basic machines are and what they do. You’ll be a gym superstar in no time!

Don’t Be Intimidated by the Gym

It is overwhelming going to the gym for the first time and only knowing what the treadmill and the elliptical bikes do. Well don’t fret most of the machines in the gym include pictures to show you what you are working out and your starting pose and finishing pose on each machine. Rule of thumb is that you should never be locking any of your joints using the machines. Always keep soft knees and elbows otherwise you may hurt yourself. When you’re at the gym don’t be intimidated and just take everything slow, make sure the machines are set to an appropriate weight limit for yourself so you don’t hurt yourself. Rule of thumb always start light and then move up.

Equipment for the Lower Body

Besides the treadmill and the elliptical you may not notice the Leg Press machine. This machine will most likely be in your gym. It is a seat that slides back when you press your feet against the board in front of the seat. To use this machine properly you’ll need to sit in the chair with your butt and back flat against the back of the seat. Adjust the seat so that when you lift your feet to the board your legs are at a 90 degree angle. Control your pushes, push with your heels and don’t just drop your legs. With 6 to 8 reps and repeating it 3 times it will definitely help you feel the burn.

Equipment for the Upper Body

There are lots of machines in the gym to help you work out your upper body. One great machine is the Lat Pulldown Machine. Depending on the way you hold the bar will vary what muscles you work out. If you place your hands further away from the middle of the bar you will work mainly your lats. If you grip your hands closer together you’ll work your triceps. When you pull down on the bar make sure to keep your elbows pointed down for this pull. Finally if you grip close but reverse your grip on the bar you will work the biceps, again keep the elbows pointed down for this one. Keeping a good form here is very important, make sure to adjust the weight on the machine. Sit with a straight back and chest slightly up and pull the bar towards your chest. Don’t slouch otherwise you won’t feel it working your body.

The Gym is Simple and Great

These are two machines you can get yourself started in the gym. If you want to try other machines just remember there are images on how to use the machine on every piece of equipment so feel free to try but just be careful. Also, proper gym ettiquette is that you clean up after yourself. No one wants to use a machine covered in someone elses’ sweat so use your towel to clean up the machine if it needs a good wipe.