How to Beat the Crowds at the Gym

Healthy SELF, SELF Magazine
Condé Nast Digital Studio
Condé Nast Digital Studio

By Bari Lieberman,SELF magazine

January means the gyms are packed with new get-fit folks, which is great, but can add some unwanted crowds for the regulars. Luckily, there are some ways to manage the uptick in gym goers so you can still have an enjoyable (and productive) sweat sesh.

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Monica Vazquez, master trainer at the NYSC gyms in New York City, shares her secrets for maneuvering at the gym when it is crazy packed:

When to avoid:
Monday-Thursday after work (about 5-8PM) are the peak times, Vazquez says. To be able to make the most of your tight schedule, try working out on an "off peak" hour.

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If peak hours can't be avoided:
Be bold-- is someone not sticking to the designated time limit on the cardio equipment? Don't be afraid to (nicely) ask them to be respectful. If a gentle confrontation isn't appealing (or you're not 100 percent sure they're over the time limit, but you have a strong feeling about it, ask one of the trainers walking around to step in and politely check and reminder them of the gym rule!

Master the crowds:
Use your time wisely! "If you are stuck in line waiting for a piece of equipment, get your pre-workout stretching out of the way or - if space permits - sneak in some weight-free exercises (i.e. lunges, squats)," Vazquez says. Also, "be mindful of others waiting for equipment, offer to switch off sets of exercises with someone who is waiting."

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Develop the perfect packed-gym workout:
"Use a crowded gym as an opportunity to try out other cardio or weight equipment you wouldn't typically frequent. Venture away from the go-to cardio machines and try out the rowing machine or stationary bike. Also, take advantage of free weights, medicine balls or body bars, all of which come in mass quantity at most gyms, meaning you have a greater chance of nabbing one," Vazquez says.

Or you can give up the gym all together! Here are tips on how to breakup with your gym!

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