We’d all love to stroll into the gym at 11 a.m. on a Tuesday when it’s blissfully empty, but let’s be real—most of us have jobs, classes, or other commitments. So, how do you make the most of your workout when the gym is packed? Here are some friendly tips to help you navigate a bustling gym without losing your cool:
1. Stay Flexible with Your Workout Plan
Imagine this: you walk in, and every machine you planned to use is occupied. Instead of waiting around, switch up the order of your exercises. If the leg press is taken, maybe start with your Romanian Deadlifts or hit the dumbbells first.
2. Borrow from Other Days
Can’t get to the leg press today? No worries. Steal an exercise from another day’s routine. Maybe swap in some lunges or step-ups that you had planned for later in the week. This way, you’re still working those muscles and ticking a box. You can revisit the leg press later in the week when you notice it is free.
3. Swap Exercises with Equivalents
If your go-to equipment is in use, think about alternative exercises that target the same muscles. For example:
- Cable machine busy? Grab some dumbbells for rows.
- No free squat rack? The leg press machine can be a solid substitute.
- Pull-up bar occupied? Head over to the lat pulldown machine.
This kind of flexibility means that you can still work the same muscle group in a similar way – doing something is better than skipping an exercise.
4. Be Mindful of Others
We all want a good workout, but it’s important to share the space. Avoid setting up circuits that hog multiple machines during peak hours. Avoid using in demand pieces of equipment for exercises that can be done elsewhere – e.g. doing Bulgarian Split Squats on the benches used for Bench Press. A little consideration goes a long way in creating a positive environment for everyone.
5. Find Your Own Space
Feeling a bit self-conscious in the crowd? Seek out a quieter corner of the gym. Grab the equipment you need and set up your own little workout haven. This can help you focus and feel more comfortable, even when the gym is packed.
6. Time Your Visits Wisely
If your schedule allows, try hitting the gym during off-peak hours. Early mornings, late evenings, or midday can be less crowded. Adjusting your routine might just make your workout more enjoyable and efficient. Even a very small time adjustment can make a big difference.
7. Have a Backup Plan
It’s great to have a plan, but in a busy gym, it’s smart to have a Plan B (and maybe C). Knowing alternative exercises or being ready to adjust on the fly can save you from frustration and keep your workout on track.
The gym sucks when it’s busy. I get that, everyone gets that. But it doesn’t mean your training goes in the bin. Your body doesn’t care whether you do your cable rows or your lateral raises first. It all comes out in the wash.
Happy lifting!
Comments +