Have you been contemplating joining a gym?
Do you feel nervous or intimidated at the prospect?
Do you worry that everyone that attends the gym will be super fit and that when you walk in everyone is going to know that you don’t belong there?
Maybe you think they are going to be judging you and mentally correcting your mistakes.
Maybe you have already taken that first step and joined the gym but are yet to venture any further than the treadmill, cross-trainer and the resistance machines.
Firstly, you need to know that you are not alone.
Secondly, these are your feelings, we promise you they are not the reality of what will actually happen when you join the gym.
Most people in the gym are incredibly friendly, would be willing to help you out and more than likely are not super fit (but they are fitter and stronger than they used to be).
They more than likely started the same as you, a little scared and intimidated but they took action.
Working out 3-4 times per week is possibly one of the healthiest habits you could implement into your life and yet most people are nervous at the prospect of joining the gym.
Don’t put it off any longer, join a gym and make the commitment to move every day so that you can live a longer and healthier life.
Here are five tips to overcoming gym anxiety:
Tip 1 : Just go for it
It sounds simple but just walk into your local gym right now (once you have read the blog) and ask to sign up. Arrive in gym clothing because they may be able to do an induction there and then. Take your bank card/phone with you so that you are able to make any payment necessary to get you moving forward. Don’t stress over any membership period (unless you plan on signing up and never going).
Tip 2: Pay for good advice
Join a private facility that is membership and booking based only. When you join a private personal training gym you pay a premium however you get the constant guidance and support of professional coaches. Listen to the advice and implement this advice and you will fast track your results. Pay for the level of support you need at this time. Your health will thank you for it.
Tip 3: Join a smaller, community-driven gym
Joining a smaller gym can help you become part of a community. The Personal Trainers will know you and understand your fitness journey. You will also receive support from other members of the gym. This is also a good way to build friendships based around fitness and is a great way to meet people if you are new to an area or have had other changes in your life.
Tip 4: Hire a Personal Trainer
A Personal Trainer will educate you and support you in getting results faster. They will improve your confidence in the gym. Research local Personal Trainers before you meet them. Look at Google reviews and talk to people who train with them. A recommendation is always a good start. Don't be put off by cost. Personal Training is an investment in your future health and well-being.
Tip 5: Join the gym with a friend or family member
It is great to have a training partner then, once you have made that first step, keep turning up with or without your partner. It is reassuring to get support and encouragement by training together and it can be great fun but don't rely on each other. Sooner or later you will be ready to head to the gym on your own.
In summary, the gym is not and does not need to be a scary place.
You are stepping out of your comfort zone however this is how you will change and develop your fitness journey.
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Extra reading
Below, we share a simple circuit that you can use in the gym. This could help improve your confidence in the gym and allow you to learn some basic movements.
Perform each exercise for 20s each with 20s rest before the next exercise. Once you have completed your reverse lunges take a 60s rest and repeat for 3-5 rounds. In week 2 or 3 increase to 30s each exercise.
Squats
Plank
Stomach hold
Reverse Lunge
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