The first step really is the hardest. That’s certainly true when you’re on your way to a new class at your fitness facility. It’s tough to know what to expect or how to prepare, especially for classes with cryptic names such as “Up and at ’em” or “Down and dirty.”

However, there are some tricks that can keep you from sweating over the class before you step in the studio door. With the following tips from Richard Cotton, MA, chief exercise physiologist for MyExercisePlan.com and a spokesperson for the American Council on Exercise (ACE), you can leave worry behind and focus on spicing up your exercise routine with a variety of fitness options.

1. Ask Questions

Talk to someone who frequents the class about what to expect and how best to prepare for the class, as well as how they like the instructor. If it’s a class—such as yoga—that calls for props or customary attire, ask what you should wear and what to bring with you. Many fitness facilities supply the necessary equipment, says Cotton, but you’ll feel more comfortable if you familiarize yourself with the equipment beforehand.

2. Start at Home

If you are fearful of what to expect in a class, rent a beginner video first. There are yoga, kickboxing, and many other exercise videos out there. Do them a few times at home before heading to your first class. You’ll feel more comfortable if you know a couple of the basic moves before hitting the crowded studio. “That way you can wake up your body to the moves in a controlled setting,” says Cotton. It also allows you to learn your body’s limitations so you’re not as apt to push yourself to injury in a class setting.

3. Hire a Personal Trainer

If you’re really apprehensive about your fitness level or about being able to keep up in a class you’ve never tried before, Cotton recommends hiring a personal trainer. “Many times fitness centers offer package deals of 5 to 10 sessions with a personal trainer,” explains Cotton. Talk to the trainer about the types of classes you’d like to attend so he or she can adjust your training to fit your goals. Ask your club if you can spread out your training sessions over several months. Cotton suggests this schedule: Twice a week for two weeks, then once a week for two weeks, and then once a month for four months. This allows you to prepare for more new classes over time and to have your trainer help you to perfect moves that you encounter in classes you are currently taking. “Not only is this stretched-out five-month program great for getting oriented to new classes, but it also keeps you committed to exercise for at least five months,” Cotton says.

4. Back-Row Tactics

Set yourself up in the back row of a new class so you can watch the more experienced people. Cotton says this positioning is especially effective at easing nerves when you’re in the minority. “I’m one of three guys who attend a yoga class with 20 women, but this doesn’t seem as obvious when I’m in the back row.”

5. Off-Peak Hours

If you can, Cotton recommends taking a class at an off-peak time so you can get more personal attention from the instructor. This will also help you develop a strong foundation from the start.

6. Early Bird

If crowds make you nervous and you can’t make an off-peak class, be sure to get to class early. That way you’re not walking into a packed class for your first time and having all of those eyes focused, albeit only momentarily, on you.

7. Partner Up

Last—but most important—there’s nothing better than the buddy system when it comes to battling first-time jitters. “Ideally, find a partner with more experience to help you through the class,” Cotton suggests. But another first-timer, someone who can relate to your slight awkwardness, can be an effective buddy, too.