Gym Anxiety Be Gone! How To Handle The Fear Around Fitness

If you are a regular gym goer, there is no doubt that like many of us, you may have felt intimidated when stepping foot inside the gym. It happens to more people than you might think. 

This lack of confidence can hinder someone’s fitness journey and may cause them to be disheartened from going to the gym. 

It can be a vulnerable time, trying to figure out machines and carry out certain workouts correctly. All while you feel as though every person around you is taking notice (they aren’t!). 

Gym anxiety is real and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. 

We believe that everyone has a right to feel like the gym is somewhere they belong. Whether you are a longtime gym bro or a first-goer, the gym is a place for everyone to be able to improve themselves. 

Here are a few tips to help relieve gym anxiety!

Get a tour

If you have never been to a particular gym before, most places are more than happy to give someone a quick tour of the gym during a quieter time. 

This allows people to know where certain machines are so when you go for the first time you are not looking for something. This is also a great time to ask any questions to the member of staff. 

Make a plan

Now that you know exactly where everything is, decide what type of workout you want to do. Maybe it’s leg day or maybe you want to focus on cardio and ab training. 

From here you can create a plan of exactly what exercises you want to do while at the gym which will allow you to be more organised and be more productive. 

Bring a friend

Having a gym buddy will not only make your workout much more fun and enjoyable but it will also alleviate those gym worries and anxieties. 

Wear something you feel confident in

Forget about what seems to be the latest styles in fitness fashion. Wear an outfit that you feel most confident in. You may prefer to be more covered up. If so you could opt for a cute oversized t-shirt and tracksuit pants. 

Try a fitness class

Most gyms offer a variety of classes throughout the week. These include Zumba, pilates, HIIT etc. Take advantage of these as the instructor will know exactly what to do. Starting out with classes will help you feel more confident when going to the gym. 

The most important thing to remember is that everyone is genuinely much more concerned about themselves and everything going on in their lives to even notice you at the gym. 

Everyone at the gym is there to improve themselves. Stay positive and confident. You’ve got this!

Words by Ava Grace

Tags:

• fitness