Have you ever ordered the same thing repeatedly at a restaurant only to sit down one day and learn they didn't have your favorite on the menu? But when you ordered something new, you ended up loving it just as much? The same thing happens with fitness, says Kenyatta Banks, a fitness instructor for TruFusion in Scottsdale, Arizona. It's just a matter of branching out to discover new things.

"Take group classes, ask a trainer for help, or hire one to help you with the basics until you are comfortable on your own," says Banks.

Jess Pate, a fitness instructor who also teaches at TruFusion, agrees it's important to step outside of your comfort zone both for your fitness goals and your mental strength. "It can be very scary walking into a giant gym with a bunch of people you have never met before. Rather than running away from it, run to it. The people inside the room with you have been through exactly what you are feeling — instructors included. Ask questions!" she says.

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Hogging the same machine is a rookie mistake, for sure, and one that'll have other gym goers annoyed real quick.

"Say you want to get in three sets on the bench press, so you 'claim' it by draping your towel over it even when you have walked away for a recovery break or to get a sip of water. Or even worse, in between your three sets you stay on said machine while checking Instagram for two minutes while you recover," says Yang. "First of all, during that recovery time, you could be doing something else — like training a different muscle group. Secondly, chances are someone wants to work in a set with you but can't because you're spending too much time on that machine."

Most people probably won't say anything to you, but they could be secretly bothered. Just make sure you're aware of how much time you're spending on a specific machine, and if anyone seems interested in using it, then finish and step aside.

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"Another common fitness mistake is not fueling and hydrating properly before a class or workout. Remember, exercise at the end of the day is added stress to your body. You have to take care of your body if you're going to put extra onto it," Pate says. "It's easy to forget to drink water throughout a normal day let alone a day you are going to exert yourself. Stay hydrated not only in the summer, but in the winter as well, and remember to replenish your body after you have worked out."

Keep in mind that what you put into your body also affects your strength and stamina during a workout. You're much more likely to kick butt having eaten a colorful, nutrient-rich, protein-laden meal versus a donut.

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"Shift your focus away from the scale. The number on the scale is not a direct representation of an improvement in health," says Yang. "Having weight loss-related goals can oftentimes lead to a preoccupation with the number on the scale and an unhealthy relationship with your body. Instead, create fitness goals that empower your mind, body and spirit, like being able to run two miles on the treadmill by the end of the month, or being able to do three sets of 15 pushups on your feet instead of your knees."

Picking goals that are true barometers of cardiovascular health and strength is a more empowering way to validate an increase in fitness levels.

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It may not seem important, but the way you feel when exercising is really important. You dress for the part when you walk into an important interview or head out on a date, and gym apparel that makes you feel good is arguably just as important.

"When you're working out, dress for the body you want. Wearing baggy clothes makes it hard to see your form which is crucial as you start your fitness journey," says Piskin. "Treat yourself to a new gym outfit and supportive sneakers that will help you feel more confident. Most importantly, you will be able to really see your progress as you self-correct form and posture throughout the workout by looking in the mirror."

The best part is that when you start to see progress in your form and shape, it fuels your motivation.

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