Introducing Kristi Lutes, Personal Trainer at Anytime Fitness Farragut Gym

So you have made the decision to begin an exercise program.  But the question I as a Personal Trainer in Farragut am asked most is: where do I start? Finding a gym in Farragut or the Knoxville area can be a very intimidating for someone who is new to fitness. There are all sorts of various contraptions, which make no sense whatsoever. Though most fitness gyms will offer a free tour to guests, these introductions are short and only touch upon all of the equipment available. So the first place to start is a reputable trainer.

A personal trainer should be someone that knows the equipment, but that also has knowledge beyond simple gym etiquette. A good trainer will have educated him or herself at least in the very basics of exercise physiology, or how the human body works. If there are previous injuries or health concerns, the trainer will address those on the front end, and then help the client to find a workout regimen that focuses on those individual issues. Working with a personal trainer also can provide that person that is new to exercise with a  degree of accountability; that support system can be invaluable for long-term success and results.

If you decide to go it alone- without the support of a trainer- learn to listen to your body. One of the biggest mistakes that those new to fitness make is what I like to refer to as overtraining syndrome. This occurs frequently in the new year, when the gym is full of eager participants who want immediate results. The problem with this mentality is that it leads to stress on the joints, injury, and ultimately, disappointment. One cannot expect to work out for one month and lose thirty pounds, for instance. The key to long-term success is summed up in one word: patience. Along with patience comes hard work, which many are not willing to put forth. Fitness is more of an attitude and a lifestyle- a journey and not a destination. There will be valleys, but if you invest the time and the effort, mountaintop experiences will come as well.

No matter how you decide to proceed, learn to set reasonable goals. Small successes will eventually add up, and you will see improvement not only in appearance, but also in how you approach life and exercise. You will see changes in the choices that you make with food, because hard work in the gym requires healthy fuel. So make that decision. It has been said, “nothing tastes as good as being healthy feels.” Find a gym that you feel comfortable and positive about, and dedicate the time necessary to achieve your goals, one day at a time.

Kristi Lutes
NASM-CPT, FNS, WFS

Anytime Fitness Farragut thanks you for reading our blog post today. We are your place in Farragut and the Knoxville area to lose weight, find a personal trainer, and get in shape! 865-671-1112