I really want to start a gym, but I have a few questions?

Question

I'm 16, 140lbs, and am about 5ft 4.

Basically, I want to lose a bit of weight and have decent sized arms, awesome abs, and just generally improve my body shape and how it preforms, I want to feel good about it myself and impress the girls ;P

Basically, what are most gyms like?

I know there won't be this group standing in the corner laughing at new people, but what is the general atmosphere like?

How do I go into the gym and even start to lift?

I have read up on weight exercises, but I don't know where I would start in preforming them in the gym if that makes sense, how will I remember them all?

Also, how long till I would see improvement?

I wouldn't call myself fat, just a bit wobbly if you know what I mean.

When could I expect to see decent abs?

(Yeah, I know this could take a long while to achieve all my goals, but the sooner the better I guess)

Also, is it ok for me to cut until I begin weights, I want to lose some fat as I reckon bulking wouldn't be great, considering my clothes hardly fit as it is =/

(Lazy summers for you ;P)

Answer 1

Gyms are different no matter where you go.  Look at who they advertise to and what the members look like.  If you see a lot of toned bodies and not a lot of exercise, people are looking to show off.  In that case, they're too busy looking at themselves to look at you and laugh.

Most gyms are full of normal, average people working at making themselves better.  All gyms should have gym monitors or personal trainers working.  They'll be able to set you up with a routine and teach you how to exercise and what you need to do to achieve your goals.  They're very friendly and can answer all your questions.

Shop around a little.  Look at three or four different places before deciding on a gym.  The biggest motivation is the people you end up being friends with.  They'll say, "See you Tuesday."  Now you HAVE to go Tuesday.  It works well

Good luck!

Answer 2

First of all, cutting and bulking are not only a waste of time, they're totally unhealthy. You can't jump into change that quickly, and half of the time, you'll backfire.

What you need to go for is 24/7 365days a week of prime physical fitness. No cutting and bulking. Nobody wants to look great JUST for the summer. It's all about the whole year!

Now that I got that out, I'll tell  you a bit about the gym. Most of the time, everyone is doing their own thing and minding their own business. The only way you can attract attention and risk embarrassment is by having an accident. If that were to happen, usually others will run to assist you. It's usually a nice environment in the gym. You should definitely bring a partner and try to make friends. This is necessary if you want to have fun on that bench press. (As well as skull crushers, and any other exercise that requires a spotter.)

I can't really tell you how long it will take you to improve. However, you'll probably start seeing results right away. That alone should be enough inspiration to keep going.

Answer 3

Every gym is different, if you want to work out and not socialize I would suggest the YMCA.  They should have people there who can help you get started.  It usually takes about 6 weeks for muscle development to start, losing fat may make it look like it happens quicker.  The abs will depend on how much fat you lose, the muscles are there they're just covered up for now.