School is about to start and, yet again, we're all trying avoid the horrid freshman fifteen, or sophomore, junior or senior year weight gain. 

Before I came to college, I kept in shape by participating in high school varsity sports and other extra curricular activities, but I had never set foot in a real gym where you had to get a membership. 

Whether your plan to stay in shape this semester is to utilize the school's free workout facilities, or buy a membership with your student discount at a near by gym, you're going to need to know what to expect when you get there for the first time. So for all those gym newbies out there, here are some tips to not look like a fool on your first gym day. 

After you sign in or swipe your membership card when you first walk in, head to the locker room. Make sure you bring your own lock. This is a number one rule for almost every gym. They often provide locker storage for all of your belongings and gym bags, but they almost always specify that they are not responsible for lost or stolen item if you do not lock them up.

First time out on the gym floor, to be safe, head straight to the cardio machines. Pick a treadmill or elliptical off to the side somewhere so you can have some time to scope out the rest of the gym to plan out the rest of your workout. This will give you time to decide which muscle group you want to work out, which machines seem easy enough for a first timer, which equipment is definitely not for you, and maybe even scope out a couple hotties.

Don't be afraid to utilize things like Pinterest to get exercise ideas. A lot of the time those can be very helpful to find your way around the gym and it gives you pictures on how to use proper form when doing new things. 

When trying new exercises and using new equipment do it a couple of times without any weight so you don't hurt yourself. If you want to try squats, dead lifts, or bench press make sure you have a spotter, or your first couple of go arounds don't use any weight. Correct form is the most important thing while weight lifting and not using proper form is the fastest way to injury. 

Make sure to stay hydrated. This is one of the biggest mistakes people make when going to the gym. They don't drink enough water while they're working out. If you wait until you're thirsty to drink water, you're too late, you're already dehydrated.

Do not forget to stretch! If this was your first time at the gym, in a while, you will probably be sore in the morning. Stretching is the best way to prevent injury and will help you keep your muscles loose so you can get back in the gym faster. Stretch for at least 20 minutes after your workout and a little bit the next morning.

With these little tips you won't embarrass yourself the first time you go to the gym and, in no time, you'll be a gym regular in tip-top shape for the new school year! Enjoy your healthier lifestyle!