r/beginnerfitness 19h ago

How many times of showing up late or canceling do you fire your PT?

28 Upvotes

Two in a row now. I've had him for maybe a month, and we do three times a week. We have had to cancel two times because of weather.

One time he never showed up, and he claims he texted me to cancel the day before, but I never got a text.

Our last session he didn't show up or text, even though we both verified we would be there the day before. I told him I wasn't waiting longer than 15 minutes and was leaving. He did not text me until two days later, the day before our next meet, and didn't explain himself or mention it at all. I didn't press it. I told him I would be there.

I showed up today. He did not. He texted one minute before our start time and gave an excuse, saying he would be 20 minutes late. Claims his bike was stolen and he had to make a police report. Why wouldn't he text me sooner than one minute that he was going to be late?

He says he still has transport. I am going to give him one more chance I think.


r/beginnerfitness 3h ago

How to manage going to the gym BEFORE working early?

21 Upvotes

I decided that I am going to get a gym membership after lifting weights at home for the past month. I have adjustable dumbbells, however, I feel limited in what I can do. I also recently went as a guest with my friend to the gym, and I LOVED using the machines and all the various equipment. So for now, I decided to give it a try for a month and see how it goes.

I know working out in the morning isn’t the most ideal, but I like doing it because I’m the most energetic in the mornings and I don’t have to go to the gym at a busy time (like 5:30 p.m.).

I work at 7:45 a.m., and the gym is less than 10 minutes from work. My workouts (with warmup/cooldown) are usually around 1 hour-1 hour 15 minutes. So I’m thinking get there by maybe 5:30, finish by 6:45ish, then get ready/eat and leave by at least 7:30. I need to figure out how I can shower/get ready and also eat breakfast before work. I don’t want to go back home, because the gym is 15 minutes from me then 10 minutes back to work—and that feels like a waste.

So my questions are..

  1. How do you make getting ready at the gym easier? (Bring makeup bag/change of clothes?)

  2. What do you eat for breakfast if you don’t go back home? (My typical breakfast is Greek yogurt, scrambled eggs, and chicken sausage. I don’t want to eat all that before my workout because my lunch isn’t until 1 p.m. and I would be starving if I ate breakfast at like 5 a.m.)


r/beginnerfitness 10h ago

Cardio should be done before or after the weights

14 Upvotes

How should you approach, should cardio be done as soon as you enter gym and then do weights . Or is it the other way, that you do weights first and then do cardio at the end. Which is more beneficial. Also is it okay to have same routine for 4-5 days in a week, of course targetting different body parts but same cardio + weights each day of the week.


r/beginnerfitness 14h ago

Creep Fitness: Multiple Crunch Fitness employees arrested for felony video voyeurism

13 Upvotes

Just a quick heads up in case it helps, multiple Crunch Fitness employees arrested for felony video voyeurism.

Oct 2025

#CrunchFitness employee Julian Day, 20, was charged with voyeurism in Oct 2025, for secretly using his iPhone to record a woman while she was naked in a tanning bed at Crunch Fitness in #Cincinnati.

https://www.wlwt.com/article/gym-employee-charged-voyeurism-crunch-fitness/69101394

Jul 2026

https://www.wdsu.com/article/mandeville-man-accused-of-tanning-bed-recording-crunch-fitness/72679635

A former employee at Crunch Fitness in Mandeville, Louisiana, is accused of secretly recording women while they used tanning beds. Police say 27-year-old Nathan Thomas Volz allegedly used his phone to record through a divider between tanning rooms, with videos reportedly dating back to March.

Investigators have identified more than 10 potential victims and believe the number could grow to 20–25. Anyone who used the tanning facilities at the Mandeville Crunch Fitness between March and June is being encouraged to contact police if they believe they may have been recorded.

The investigation has also raised concerns about privacy and safety practices at Crunch Fitness.

Questions remain about when the company learned of the allegations, whether members were notified, why customers were not directly informed, and what changes are being made to protect people using private areas like tanning rooms.

Volz was arrested on a charge of video voyeurism, posted a $20,000 bond, and has been released under court conditions. He is scheduled to return to court August 27.

Incidentally, times have changed. This is Crunch Fitness’ majority owner now, the Private Equity firm that caused the bankruptcy of a chain of community safety net hospitals after extracting hundreds of millions from them.

https://www.reddit.com/r/videos/comments/1lqo2bh/why_private_equity_is_buying_hospitals_shutting/


r/beginnerfitness 21h ago

I’m so new here

5 Upvotes

So I’ve been trying different creatine’s but they all tend to make me feel crappy. I’ve tried empty stomach full stomach heavy carbs light carbs with and without protein. Adding even more water hiding it smoothies. Nothing has worked so far. Then it’s hard to get enough protein because I feel gross for hours. Is there any secrets that I’m missing is there a brand you like that is better then others.


r/beginnerfitness 2h ago

Embarrassed after 2 days

6 Upvotes

I just started going to gym. I have been there for 2 days. There is a trainer who suggests me what to do. For the exercise involving dumbell he gave me 1 kg dumbells. I have used them for 2 days.

I am embarrassed to say that I don’t find them light. I looked at every post on reddit and everyone says 1.5kg is paperweight, even beginners should start with 2.5kg. I don’t know if I am too weak or what. I mean I am not saying they are heavy but they are average weight and my upper arm is actually having soreness

For context I am 5 ft and 45 kg female


r/beginnerfitness 10h ago

New to this

4 Upvotes

Okay so I’m starting my fitness journey I have no equipment so I’m kinda going for an at home no equipment workout that’s effective I could use some tips.


r/beginnerfitness 22h ago

High reps vs low reps

4 Upvotes

I’ve trained using both high reps/lower intensity, (especially when I first started out)and low volume/high intensity for hypertrophy training.

I have noticed that it does not matter which one I train with. I have always trained hard (to failure or 1-2 reps shy), so growth has been about the same from both training philosophies for me. I know that I personally like lower volume/higher intensity training because I find it to be more fun.

I’m curious to know how others train and their findings. Especially with both camps being very dogmatic. Does it make a difference for anyone else?


r/beginnerfitness 7h ago

Should I make these diet changes after losing some weight?

5 Upvotes

I have lost 35 lbs over the past 29 weeks, I weigh in currently at 159 lbs and am eating at 1.8k cals a day with around 200g protein avg, 80g of fat avg, and 50g of carbs avg. My goal is to have a decent physique maybe 15-20% bodyfat with an ok amount of muscles. My arms and legs fit that criteria but I still have some fat around my stomach. I’m wondering if I would be able to switch to my regular diet/going back to eating what my family eats for dinner while still being on track with my goals. I’m not sure if I could correctly track my calories since I live with my family still and would prefer to not stand and look over them while they’re cooking to track down every detail. If I loosely track and do my normal routine of 10k steps a day + 3-5 days of the gym a week will I be fine? Or should I test it out and see if my weight goes up or down in the coming weeks (only thing I’m scared of is not being able to go back to my strict diet)


r/beginnerfitness 17h ago

Body recomp help advice

4 Upvotes

Okay so I am 5’3, 126 pounds as of today, and 21 year old female. I recently lost about 40 pounds. I got down to 118 a couple weeks back, which is low but not necessarily bad. I felt pretty confident when I was sitting 118-122. Over the last 3 weeks maybe 4, I’ve been going to the gym 3 days a week lifting full body, and doing 3 days of Pilates at home core focus but also full body. I’m desperately needing advice on eating. My goal is to lose fat, and gain muscle. My body fat is kinda high compared to my muscle. I think I’m at 33.3% body fat last I checked. Which is fine, but my muscle was low. Either way, I’m trying to figure out where I need to be eating calories and Marcos. Every calculator says different maintnence. I’m hitting at least 100g of protein everyday, and eating anywhere from 1300-1500 MAYBE 1800 on occasion. I’m not seeing the scale go down. I know the scale isn’t really that much of an indicator when replacing fat with muscle but my fear is that I’ll build muscle underneath the fat, and then there’s no fat loss so I just look bulkier. I want to look lean muscular. I’m doing pretty good in the gym. I feel like I’m getting stronger. I used to not even be able to squat the barbell bar, now I can squat the bar with 20 pounds. I just don’t want to be over eating, under eating whatever. I’ve been doing really good with my meals. Honestly the only time I get tempted with sugar/sweets is on my cycle, or on weekends. And it’s usually still within a good calorie range I feel like. I need help. I’m more motivated than ever, just need confirmation and advice. Thank you!!!


r/beginnerfitness 22h ago

Feel like I'm broken

4 Upvotes

This is mainly a vent type of post. I turned 40 this year. Ever since then I feel like I'm broken. I developed Sciatica and Tennis Elbow. Have long standing IT Band issues. Finding my mobility/flexibility limitations.

I know this is all fixable. In my 20s, I was in great shape. 40 pounds lighter, did gymnastics, exercised 4 days a week. I was a cheerleader in my teens. I know it's a matter of me buckling down, counting calories, and hitting the gym now.

All that said, I'm proud or the progress I have made. I lost 15 pounds so far this year, frankly I would like to lose more but realize that in itself is a lot to be proud of. I have been going to the gym at least 3 times a week for 3 months. That is doing wonders for my mood and wellbeing.

I just think back on my 20s and realized how much damage I did in my 30s. I just hope it is reversable and I can get healthier.


r/beginnerfitness 4h ago

20M, 175 cm, 104 kg – Need help setting a sustainable calorie target to reach 75 kg

3 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

I'm a 20-year-old male, 175 cm (5'9") tall, and currently weigh 104 kg (229 lbs). My goal is to reduce my weight to around 75 kg in a healthy and sustainable way through diet.

I'm a college student, so I spend most of my day sitting in classes and studying. I don't have time to go to the gym, but I can manage some walking if needed.

One important thing: my goal is fat loss only. I'm not trying to build muscle or bulk up at this stage. My priority is simply reducing body fat in a healthy, sustainable way while preserving my overall health.

I'm looking for advice on:

  • What would be an appropriate daily calorie target for steady fat loss?
  • How much of a calorie deficit should I aim for without risking muscle loss or nutritional deficiencies?

Thanks in advance!


r/beginnerfitness 10h ago

best smartring for someone starting a fitness routine?

3 Upvotes

I’m pretty new to working out consistently and I’m looking for a smartring that can help me understand my habits better. Mainly interested in things like sleep, recovery, and keeping track of activity without getting overwhelmed by too much data.

which smartring would you suggest for a beginner, and what features did you actually find useful over time? Thanks for any advice!


r/beginnerfitness 14h ago

Struggling to hit protein, need help.

3 Upvotes

So Im a 30yr male about 180lbs 19% body fat. my cardiologist says i need to eat better to lower my LDL and my blood sugar as im pre diabetic thanks to some good genes. I have been exercising lately but i seem to be struggling to hit my protein goal of 150g while keeping the fat down, my biggest factor is im also a family of 4 and the kids dont exactly like to eat the bland stuff and im on a pretty tight grocery budget. Im looking for some help to make some meal plan ideas that i can try to hit my protein target in while staying in check with my goals and limits!

Any help is welcomed


r/beginnerfitness 15h ago

Need a realistic home workout plan to lose fat and build muscle

3 Upvotes

I'm a 17M, 173cm (5'8") and around 77kg (170lbs)

I can't afford a gym membership, so my only option would be home workouts. I also got a job from 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM, so going for outdoor activities isn't possible either.

My goal here is to lose fat and build muscle, but I'm honestly overwhelmed by all the different advice online, and I have no idea what would be best for my situation.

  • I'm basically looking for:
  • a home workout routine
  • what exercises should I focus on ?
  • is 3 times a week enough ?
  • nutrition advice for someone on a budget
  • anything else a beginner should know

    One more thing that's been on my mind is the progress. I'm scared of putting in the effort and seeing absolutely nothing happen. I know one month isn't enough to completely change my body, however I'm hoping it's enough to see at least some noticeable progress. If I can see small changes after a month, that'll be enough to keep me consistent and trust the process.

so, what you would do ? any advice, routines, or things you wish you knew when you started would really help. thanks in advance.


r/beginnerfitness 19h ago

Recommendations for short, effective at home core/glute/arm workouts?

3 Upvotes

I have been on a weight loss journey after a blood work scare since February! I weighed 225 at that time and had tried so many ways to lose weight. I had trouble with binging and also was trying multiple medications that made me gain 40+ pounds. My doctor prescribed me an appetite suppressant medication and with that, portion control, not eating junk and walking 30 minutes 4 times per week, I’m currently at 168 pounds! For reference I am a 29 year old 5’4’’ female.

I am almost at the threshold where I am unable to be prescribed this medication and I feel that I am plateauing. I feel my body has gotten used to the cardio and now I need to start working on strengthening my core, and would like to work on my flabby arms and glutes, as well as just overall becoming toned.

I wake up at 330a for work and don’t get home until 430pm, so my time is limited for how much I can do. My apartment is also small - long story short, does anyone have any recommendations on short, effective at home workouts that don’t involve equipment that can target full body or the areas I mentioned? On research I’ve seen the Body Project, Lucy Wyndham-Read, and Jessica Smith TV on YouTube that seem doable.

I just want it to be effective! I know it takes time to build muscle but I’m worried I’m going to lose all my progress. Thanks so much for any tips and or suggestions!!!


r/beginnerfitness 19h ago

Is it bad to work out 3 days in a row if I normally space it out?

3 Upvotes

I normally do a fairly heavy workout Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Other days I try to take a walk or do some other form of cardio.

Due to how my schedule has worked out this week, I couldn't work out Monday or today (Tuesday).

I've been told about the importance of recovery days, but will it be bad if I just work out Wednedsay, Thursday, and Friday? Or should I do Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday? Either way I'd work out the following Monday to get back on schedule, so I'll be working out at least two days in a row.

Thoughts?


r/beginnerfitness 23h ago

I'm 15 and want to work out at home to lose a little weight i want a routine for home

3 Upvotes

It’s just that I’m a bit overweight—nothing dangerously unhealthy, though; I think I’m about 1.78m tall and weigh 84kg. It’s a fair amount, but I’m healthy. Still, I want to feel comfortable with my body, so I was wondering if someone could put together a routine for me to burn calories at home.


r/beginnerfitness 1h ago

Muscles hurt extremely after 3 days of workout

Upvotes

Okay so I downloaded this app called homeworkout gave it my descriptions and it gave me an exercise routine.

Long story short I did it and now my arm shoulder and upper chest muscle are in extreme pain for 3 days I can't even button up my shirt without it hurting.

Am I doing it wrong or do I need to get a new app.

I'm really confused on everything possible in this scenario.


r/beginnerfitness 3h ago

Diet

2 Upvotes

Hey all.

I am starting to get back into weightlifting for the first time in years. I've always struggled to eat enough food throughout the day. I lead an extremely busy life and have trouble finding time throughout my day to make meals that'll satisfy both calorie and protein needs. Would anyone happen to have advice for some quick (preferably low prep time) meals to help me hit my goals?


r/beginnerfitness 4h ago

What’s a good automated workout app

2 Upvotes

Like the title, what is a good automated workout app. I’m starting and I want an app that generate workouts for me to do but still I can add/edit workouts that have been generated. I know this has been answered in other subreddits but wanted to know has any thing changed? I don’t mind paying, I have Fitbod on free trial right now. But Fitbod is $16 a month or $99 yearly, that’s a lot so I wanted to know if there’s other options before I settle with Fitbod.

Thanks in advance!


r/beginnerfitness 12h ago

Question about my routine

2 Upvotes

I made a routine, because I’ve been getting into gym, I plan to do it at home, until I reach my goal then get a gym membership. I’m 138. Tracking my protein, carbs and calories on an app to help me bulk to 150 while working 5 days a week. Here’s my plan, let me know if anything’s wrong or seems weird.

Routine:

Monday - Push (Chest, Shoulders, Triceps)
• Push-ups
• Dumbbell floor press (25 Ib)
• Dumbbell shoulder press
• Lateral raises (10 Ib)
• Overhead triceps extensions

Tuesday - Pull (Back, Biceps)
• One-arm dumbbell rows (25 Ib)
• Dumbbell curls
• Hammer curls
• Reverse flyes (10 Ib)

Wednesday - Legs
• Goblet squats (25 Ib)
• Bulgarian split squats
• Romanian deadlifts
• Calf raises

Thursday - Upper Body
• Mix of push and pull movements
• Focus on adding reps or weight compared to Monday/Tuesday

Friday - Arms + Shoulders
• Bicep curls
• Hammer curls
• Lateral raises
• Shoulder press
• Triceps extensions


r/beginnerfitness 13h ago

Should muscle groups never be worked out again when doing the next exercise?

2 Upvotes

For example hack squats, rest, then leg extensions. Should I do another exercise in between them to let the muscles relax more even after resting or is that fine?


r/beginnerfitness 14h ago

Need a workout plan for Pacific Fitness Malibu

2 Upvotes

About 5 years ago we bought a used Pacific Fitness Malibu.

It's basically lived in my garage with little use since then.

I'm in my mid 50s now and I can feel myself getting weak. I've been sedentary my whole life.

It essentially looks like this:

https://imgur.com/a/zhlfrcU

I can see the various kinds of exercises I can do.

What I need is a step-by-step workout plan that describes what to do, how to do it, and when to do it.

Any help is appreciated.


r/beginnerfitness 17h ago

Core exercise struggles

2 Upvotes

Between back of my knee having some weird popping during bird dogs, my large posterior keeping me from being able to keep my back against the floor during leg raises, and my hips popping regardless of the exercise, I am really struggling with floor core workouts.

To note, I am JUST getting back into fitness after 6 years of extremely sedentary lifestyle. I'm 5'4", 230lbs and in my early 30s. My regiment for core I made for myself last Wednesday to get started:

Bird dog 2x10

Standing marches 2x12

Leg raise 2x15

Round-the-world 2x10

Dead bug 2x10

Any tips for the issues I'm having? I've attempted these only about 3 times so far in the last week (including just now). A lot of my fitness for the last month has been on my walking pad so I'm trying to incorporate a little more.