Gym Confidence: From Studio Movements to Gym Machines

The gym floor can look unfamiliar, especially after exercising together in the Joint Pain Programme studio.

But you are not starting again. You have already practised movements such as pushing, pulling, stepping and building stamina.

You have also learnt ways to adapt exercise when you need to.

Phase 2 is the next stage of the programme. The gym is just one place you might choose to be active.

Classes, swimming, walking and familiar exercises at home are useful options too.

Explore the gym at your own pace

These three short guides can help if you want to use the gym floor at Sunbury:

1. Gym Confidence: Resistance Machines — recognise familiar strength movements on gym machines, with photographs and demonstrations.

2. Gym Confidence: Cardio Machines — explore the treadmill, bikes, cross-trainer and other cardio equipment, with simple starting instructions.

3. Build Your Own Gym Session — see one straightforward example of how to combine cardio and strength exercises.

You don't need to read every guide or use every machine. Start with whatever is useful to you.

When you're ready to try

Look → Check → Try

• Look: Choose a machine or exercise you recognise.

• Check: Read its instructions and see how to set it up and start safely.

• Try: Begin with a manageable amount, then adjust using PACE.

Not sure about a machine? Don't force it.
Choose another familiar option or ask for help if you need it.