We all have been there sometime in our lives... stepping into a gym for the first time and being overwhelmed with the people, the smell, the machines and that energy that hits you right in the face.
Where do I start, what do I start with, do I say hello to others, what's gym slang??... all of this can be confusing and overwhelming at first and it can be even worse if you are naturally low on self confidence.If you hold out and stick to going to the gym for more than two weeks it will definitely get better and you will start to get the feel and feeling more in place compared to the beginning. But if you are still not sure and these tips might help... feel free to try these out.
WORK WITH A PT
For a beginner, it’s easy to be overwhelmed with all the options gyms have on offer. Thankfully, personal trainers are a brilliant resource for new gym members, as they will take away any uncertainties you may feel when you step onto the gym floor.
PTs will begin by talking with you about what your fitness goals are and what you want to get out of the gym. This allows them to tailor a workout plan to your goals, where they’ll walk you through every exercise to ensure you’re can confidently complete every movement.
That way, you don’t accidentally embarrass yourself by trying out a new move your body isn’t ready for!
GO IN WITH A PLAN
So, now you know what your targets are and you know how to safely use the equipment. However, going into the gym without a plan is a recipe for awkward pauses and lots of head-scratching.
To help you stay focused, make sure you know exactly what exercises you plan to do before you step foot in the gym. By planning out your fitness routine in advance, you won’t need to worry about anything other than your own workout.
For example, if you’re ready to do some bench presses but the weights room is too busy, no problem! You know exactly what your next exercise is, so you can move on and come back when it’s less crowded.
BUDDY UP
It’s easy to forget that you don’t need to fly solo at the gym - going for a workout with a friend is a great way to make the gym feel less scary.
Having a gym partner not only helps with your confidence but is also a proven way to keep you motivated. Gym buddies help us stick to our fitness routines when we’re feeling too stressed or worn down to workout.
You’ll notice right away how much more at ease you are by seeing a friendly face across the gym. Plus, you might be helping them overcome their gym anxiety, too!
WEAR CLOTHES THAT MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD.
Feeling comfortable and confident in the clothes you’re wearing can go a long way, so go ahead and treat yourself to a new workout outfit, or that pair of leggings you’ve been eyeing up. Even if you don't feel that confident inside you can definitely make yourself look confident on the outside and it will sooner than later have a positive effect on your confidence.
TAKE COMPARING YOURSELF TO OTHERS OFF THE TABLE.
“It’s easy to walk into a gym and compare yourself to the other gym goers, but it’s not fair to compare your day one to someone else with years of experience.
Remember, everyone was a beginner at some point and felt just as uncertain as you. And if you must play the comparison game, make it all about you—the present you, who is crushing your workout even after a hectic afternoon, compared to the previous version of you, who may not have made it there. Seeing how your new, positive habits stack up can show you how far you’ve come and give you the confidence to keep moving forward
REMIND YOURSELF THAT YOU BELONG THERE.
When your nerves are firing and your heart is racing, repeat this affirming—and 1,000% accurate!—mantra: You belong there.
“You belong to the gym just like everyone else there. You pay the same amount of money. You have the right to all the areas and equipment. If you’re ever feeling intimidated, remind yourself it’s your space too. You belong!
Follow these tips and give your confident levels that step up in the right direction. Good luck with your next training session and make the best of it.
Gym Cat
For the strong