FLYEfit Coach Shares Expert Advice on Starting the Gym with Confidence in 2026

As many people across Ireland look to start the new year feeling healthier and more energised after the Christmas break, FLYEfit head coach Shane Fallon is sharing expert insights on how to confidently get back into the routine of going to the gym and exercising in 2026.

According to Shane, the new year does not have to mean extreme routines or instant transformation. Instead, he encourages people to focus on building sustainable habits, finding support and approaching fitness with a long-term mindset. He stresses that January is not about perfection, but about consistency and setting realistic expectations.

Speaking today, Shane said “January can feel intimidating for a lot of people. The gym can seem overwhelming, especially if you’ve been away for a while. But it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Starting fresh is about small, consistent steps and doing what works for you”.

Shane emphasises that confidence often comes from removing uncertainty. Whether it’s asking for help, joining a class, or setting realistic expectations, the key is to make the process feel approachable and enjoyable. Shane also stresses that guidance and structure are key to building confidence and maintaining motivation during the early weeks of the year.

Five key tips from FLYEfit coach Shane Fallon on getting back into the gym in 2026:

1. Don’t do it alone

One of the biggest factors holding people back from starting the gym is the fear of the unknown. It’s one thing to pluck up the courage to walk in the front door but then you have this huge monster of “well what do I do now?”. Shane recommends two options: firstly, reach out to one of the personal trainers on the gym floor. They are always at hand and happy to help and also provide paid personal training services. Secondly,  joining in on a group fitness class helps build confidence from day one. Most classes cater for all levels of fitness but ones that Shane would recommend for beginners would be Pump, Spin or Pilates.

2. Three days per week is enough

Contrary to popular belief, Shane stresses that daily workouts are not required for progress. If you show up just three days per week with intent, use your rest days wisely and manage your nutrition outside the gym you can get amazing results. Shane’s advice if you are new to the gym is that 2-3 full body sessions a week will be more than enough.

3. Focus on addition, not subtraction

Rather than cutting out everything you enjoy, Shane encourages a more balanced approach. Adding positive habits such as eating more vegetables, extra daily steps, or a few weekly workouts, which creates progress without unnecessary restriction. Shane said “look at what you can add in, examples are a portion of vegetables in 1-2 meals a day, add 1000 extra steps to your activity per day and add a few workouts a week that you are currently not already doing. Enjoyment and moderation are key”.

4. Keep a little left in the tank

When you get into the gym, don’t try to push yourself to exhaustion thinking that is what you have to do, especially at the start. If you are new to the gym you will get results just by showing up and doing more than you have been doing and as you are new, that means anything you do is progress. Play the long game and realise you are in this for the lifestyle not the quick fix.

5. Know your why and do what you enjoy

Understanding the deeper reason behind your goals helps maintain motivation on difficult days. Whether it is more energy, confidence, or better quality of life, choosing activities you enjoy makes the journey more sustainable. So pick an activity you enjoy, we have numerous different classes so try a few of them out you may find some are not what you are looking for and that’s fine but when you find what you are looking for you will enjoy the journey more. Shane said, “The person who enjoys walking will travel further than the person who loves the destination”.

Speaking on his advice, Shane added “If even one of these tips helps someone feel more comfortable walking through the gym doors, that’s a win. Starting the new year fresh should feel positive, not stressful”.

FLYEfit, Ireland’s premier gym chain, offers a wide range of group fitness classes and on-floor support, all included with membership, making it easier for people of all fitness levels to start their journey with confidence in 2026. With 22 gym locations across Dublin, Galway and Cork, including their latest opening of Inchicore last month, FLYEfit’s key mission is to make the gym more accessible and enjoyable for all.

For more information, visit www.flyefit.ie