For those who are scared to go to the gym…

As someone who is by no means a considered a gym rat, and who, until the beginning of this year, was terrified to step foot into a gym… I have some words to say to the other girlies struggling with the idea of going to a gym.

Here are a few of the thoughts I’ve had and things I’ve learned since starting my fitness journey…

🎧 REMEMBER: ITS A MINDSET.

One of the biggest things I struggled with, was that I didn’t “fit in” with the gym community. This is just insecurity talking, and is not based in truth. People are there to MOVE and to get HEALTHY. And if you’re wanting to move and get healthy, then you absolutely fit in. I was surprised to find that nobody is really watching you… everyone is in their own space, and that was a comfort I was surprised to find.

🎧 GETTING STARTED IS THE HARDEST PART.

This is big!!! The hardest part about going to the gym is actually getting started. Just get in your car and go; or do what I did, and take a friend your first few times to get familiar with the gym layout and equipment 🤭

🎧 YOU DONT HAVE TO KNOW EVERYTHING UPFRONT.

This is why they call it “Fitness Journeys”, because you’re continually growing and learning new things. You don’t need to know all the routines and techniques and exercises before you go; and no one will judge you for exploring to see what works for you.

🎧 START SMALL.

Weightlifting was something I wasn’t totally comfortable with, so I stuck to things like the treadmills and stair masters. You can find simple workout plans and can even look up certain machines and equipments before you go… but starting small is the best way to start.

🎧 BUILD A ROUTINE.

the best way to start strong is planning to stay consistent. The best way to do this is to choose the best times of the week that work for YOU, and stay consistent with that. Remember you’re never “too busy”… all you really need is at least 20min 🥰

🎧 WRITE DOWN YOUR GOALS.

What goals are you hoping to reach? To get stronger? More energy? To lose weight? To have more structure in your routine? More discipline? Pick 2-3 goals and track your progress every week. Seeing you step closer to goals, small or big, is always so encouraging and motivates you to keep going!

🎧 DO THIS FOR YOU AND YOU ALONE.

I tried the gym scene many times before, and never actually followed through. It wasn’t until I decided that I wanted to be in control of how I felt (health wise), that I was decided to make some changes. It’s doesn’t have to be some life altering lifestyle changes… it’s starts with the decision to improve. Do you want to live better? Feel better? If you do, start small. That’s the hardest part 💕

It’s been a few months of me learning this, but I’m already noticing small differences in how I look and feel. Like I said earlier, it’s a journey!

#healthylifestyle2024 #gymmotivation #gymanxiety #embracevulnerability #gym

Washington

2024/9/17 Edited to

I know that feeling all too well – the knot in your stomach just thinking about stepping into a gym. For a long time, my gym anxiety held me back, making me feel like I didn't belong. But I promise, how to get over gym fear is more achievable than you think, and it's something I've personally navigated. This advice from a non-gym rat is all about making that first step, and every step after, feel less daunting. One of the biggest game-changers for me was realizing that scared to join the gym often stems from a fear of the unknown. So, let's demystify it a little. My first few visits weren't about intense workouts; they were reconnaissance missions! I’d go during off-peak hours (think mid-morning or early afternoon) just to walk around, see where everything was, and get a feel for the atmosphere. I didn't even work out the first time; I just observed. This small act greatly reduced my gym anxiety because I knew what to expect. Another tip I wish I'd known sooner: prepare your gym bag like it's a trusty sidekick. Pack comfy workout clothes that you feel good in, a water bottle to stay hydrated, and most importantly, your headphones! Seriously, headphones are your best friend. They create a personal bubble, allowing you to focus on your music or podcast and drown out any perceived distractions. Suddenly, the fear of being watched melts away because you're immersed in your own world, just like everyone else. When it came to actually working out, I started with what felt safest. That meant hopping on a treadmill or an elliptical for 20-30 minutes. No complex machines, no heavy weights, just simple cardio to get my heart rate up and build confidence. I also found a few beginner-friendly YouTube workout videos I could follow on my phone. This way, I had a plan, which combat the feeling of how can I not be scared to go to the gym because I knew exactly what I was going to do. And guess what? No one cared if I wasn't doing it perfectly. Most people are too focused on their own goals to notice. Remember, every single person in that gym started somewhere. Even the most seasoned fitness enthusiasts had a "first day." Embrace being a beginner; it’s a sign that you’re doing something brave and positive for yourself. Celebrate showing up, even if you only manage 15 minutes. Each visit builds momentum and chips away at that initial gym anxiety. Soon, you'll look back and wonder why you were ever scared to join the gym in the first place, feeling proud of the journey you've embarked upon. You've got this!

12 comments

KennBryte

Absolutely love this, this was very helpful, many times i find myself in and out a gym not being consistent because of my anxiety and fear of the gym. Feeling weird and awkward once im inside. Not wanting to look crazy because i dont really know what im doing. But i want to be consistent and confident, dont say and DO

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