Strategies For Facing Common Gym Fears

Whether you are thinking about joining a gym for the first time or are considering getting back in to the gym after a long break, it can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! The top three reasons people are afraid to go to the gym are that they don’t know where to start, they think they aren’t in good enough shape to go to the gym, or they are worried they will get bored and quit. Here are some ideas to help battle and move past those fears.

I don’t know where to start/I won’t be able to stick with it

It’s true, if you don’t know where to start then you will feel intimidated or worse, you will get hurt and you won’t be able to stick with it. The easiest solution to this fear is to hire a trainer. You can hire an personal trainer or hire an online trainer who will help walk you through how to do exercises tailored to your goals, as well as hold you accountable to sticking with what you started!.

I am not in good enough shape to go to the gym

Despite what many people believe you don’t have to start out in shape to belong to and enjoy the gym. The gym is a positive atmosphere meant for self-improvement and if you see many fit people around you at the gym it’s likely they didn’t start that way. Every single person starts their fitness journey somewhere and more than likely you are putting more pressure on yourself to look a certain way even before beginning than anyone else is. Typically, you will find like-minded individuals of varying levels of fitness who can help motivate you, inspire you, and keep you accountable to your own goals. Remember no one can make you feel inferior without your consent! If by chance you interact with a negative Nancy at the gym, report it – most global gyms will immediately address the issue.

I’ll get bored

Sometimes the gym can seem monotonous but there are things you can do to fight that feeling. The first is to tie your fitness program to a goal. Maybe you want to lose 10lbs, add lean muscle to your frame, or both. Tying your fitness routine to a goal will allow you to create a specific plan for when you go to the gym so you aren’t aimless and your time is well spent focusing on a routine that will help you achieve your goal. Having a goal can also help you track progress which will add excitement as you see changes each week and this will push you to keep going.

Lastly, variety is key! Don’t always do the same lifts, switch up your cardio machines and style, try a class, swim, or find a gym mate to help build fun workouts together. Most people’s fears are rooted in the unknown or the threat of looking silly. If you don’t know, ask! No one is going to judge you for wanting to better yourself.