HEAT Running, personal trainer and co-founder Joseph Phillips Tips for 2016!

1) Don’t max out on your 1st day. Assuming that you have had a long lapse or its your first time in the gym, lifting the most weight possible isn’t a good idea right out of the gate. Lay a foundation and build up first. Stay consistent and there will be plenty of time to test your limits.

2) Don’t refuse the help of a personal trainer. Most gyms offer a complementary session you can schedule on your first day working out. Do it! Yes, he/she wants to sell you sessions but most trainers also genuinely want your help! Plus a few PT sessions can put you on the right track toward your goals.

3) Don’t copy the routine of the guy who looks the way you want to look. We are all created differently. The guy with the V-shape and the six pack may not know a whole lot about exercise. He could be doing dangerous exercises or things that may not fit in with your current fitness level. We are all different and need to find a routine that fits our genetics and goals.

4) Don’t hit on the hottest girl you see. Yes, you are gonna see some beautiful women working out! That is one of the perks of being a gym member, but if you approach the hot chick on the first day you may have missed the behemoth she came in with. While you are flirting, Adonis walks up behind you and in no time you are either nursing a fat lip or you will be forever known as “that guy.” Wait a few days to make sure she isn’t coming to the gym with her man.

5) Don’t let a trainer push you to the puking point. If you decide to do a training session remember you are in control. A very small percentage of fitness professionals will try to push you too much. Know your body and your first day limits. Once again, if you go too hard and can’t make it to the restroom, you will be “that guy” who puked by the pull-up machine.