Spotting?

[Spooky]

So, here's the deal:

I just moved and joined a new (shady) gym. I use free-weights but mostly, when I work out, hang out under the power rock. So, a lot of the exercises I do requires a spotter.

In the last city I was living in, I had a friend who did the same routine as me and so we would spot each other at the gym. In this city, I haven't found anybody at all who is even interested in going to the gym, much less to lift weights.

So, my question is: how can I keep doing my routine without a spotter? I can always ask someone for the gym to spot me on an exercise, but I can't ask someone to spot me for 1.5 hours. Do you know what I mean?

I've gotten great results with my last routine, and don't want to switch it up.

What're y'all's opinions?

[mewletter]

Ask the gym staff if they are willing to assist you. I often am able to get one of them to spot me, especially squats. If the gym has a notice board, put a notice that you needed a spotter or training partner.

[Mdlftr]

Originally Posted by Spooky

So, here's the deal:

I just moved and joined a new (shady) gym. I use free-weights but mostly, when I work out, hang out under the power rock. So, a lot of the exercises I do requires a spotter.

In the last city I was living in, I had a friend who did the same routine as me and so we would spot each other at the gym. In this city, I haven't found anybody at all who is even interested in going to the gym, much less to lift weights.

So, my question is: how can I keep doing my routine without a spotter? I can always ask someone for the gym to spot me on an exercise, but I can't ask someone to spot me for 1.5 hours. Do you know what I mean?

I've gotten great results with my last routine, and don't want to switch it up.

What're y'all's opinions?

I've noticed that a lot of guys will use the Smith machine to do squats, so they don't have to use a spotter. I've used it also, and find it helpful.
Mdlftr

[Brave_Wolfie]

Oh, that sounds like a problem that needs some working out... I hate myself for even typing that. Anyway, I suggest you do some searching for a spotter first. Usually gyms have a notice board of sorts where you can pin up requests. Maybe there's some guys who go there to work out and they just happen to go when you don't? If that doesn't work, then you're S.O.L.

The next step would be to ask if the gym can provide spotters. If the gym is as barren as you say it is, then I think the people who work there can help you out. They might charge you, though.

The last step and final choice would be to look for a machine that works the same muscle groups as the free weights. With all the different types of machines out there, it shouldn't be too hard to find a machine that does what you need. The results from using a machine shouldn't be too different from the free weights either... I think it would be a bit more safer and cause a little less straining as well. So there's a plus.