If you have access to an on-site gym, do you take advantage of the facility? Do you use the cool gym at the hotel when you travel?

It’s time to get the most out of your gym access.

This is your opportunity to try something new. Equipment will be limited in comparison to a large gym.

Here are some tips to get the most out of your on-site gym.

• Safety first. Most apartment gyms are remote. If you head to the community center at night, bring a buddy. You’ll feel safer going with a friend or familiar neighbor.
• Hire a personal trainer if you’re new to the community and don’t know what to do. They’re insured and credentialed and will come to you. Apartment gyms aren’t crowded and have a small variety of equipment; both make trainers happy.
• It’s convenient so you might take it for granted. Remember that you’re paying for it. Take advantage of the pool and gym.
• Assess the available equipment and see what there is. Try out the things you haven’t used after learning how to use them.
• Using your complex gym is a great opportunity to get to know your neighbors. It’s great for handling depression and improving socialization.

Sample Workout

1. Squats in front of a mirror with a medicine ball or dumbbell
2. Crunches with large, fully-inflated therapy balls
3. Shrugs, lateral and frontal raises with dumbbells

Listen as Dr. Christopher Berger joins Melanie Cole, MS, to share how to get the most out of your apartment gym.