First time in a gym – don't stress
My tips for getting over your gym anxiety
Going back to the gym post 4 months of forced home workouts (thanks to covid19) got me thinking about the first time I ever went there. I was anxious, overwhelmed, clueless... but I went. And against all odds, it has become one of the places I look forward to go to today. It’s amazing how things have changed. And I am grateful to myself for not listening to all the voices in my head that tried to talk me out of it.
Looking back, I think what motivated me the most was the knowledge I gained. I knew that in order to be able to progress I would have to step up my game, meaning lift heavier to build more muscle.
I was doing weighted home workouts, but my equipment was limited. Once the weights became too easy I new that the best choice would be getting a gym membership.
So, if you are at the point where you are considering getting a gym membership, but you are anxious to go, you might find these tips useful:
FOLLOW A PROGRAM; Having a program will give you structure and confidence. It will keep you from wandering aimlessly around the gym, figuring out what to do next. It will keep you focused and if done professionally also injury free. I was following an online gym guide for beginners when I first started at the gym.
HIRE A TRAINER; Have a few sessions with a trainer, if possible. This is a great way to get to know the equipment and make sure your form is on point. That way you will also limit the possibility of injury. If you don’t have the funds, you could ask an employee to show you were the equipment is, that will give you some sort of confidence. You can also look up online how to perform the exercises correctly before going to the gym.
ASK FOR HELP; Don’t be afraid to ask for advice, remember, everyone was once in your position. People get it and are generally very nice. People go to the gym to get good energy, most of them would be happy to help.
PEOPLE ARE IN THEIR ZONE; Remember that people are there to work out not to stare at you. Everyone usually minds their own business and is in their zone. No one really cares what you do. Far fewer people are paying attention to you than what you think.
GO WITH SOMEONE; Go with a friend, it helps to have someone around, even better if he/she are familiar with the gym.
AVOID THE CROWD; A less crowded gym might be less stressful on your first days, and a more comfortable setting to ease into your routine. Avoid the peak hours. Peak hours usually are before and after work.
BE COMORTABLE; Wear something comfortable for your workout that you also feel confident in. Don’t wear something you are constantly occupied with because it makes you feel uncomfortable.
MUSIC; Have a kickass playlist that boosts your energy and motivation. Also, the headphones will silence the outside noise and keep you focused on yourself.
Last, remember the fact that everyone starts out somewhere. All were beginners once. Don’t compare your day one to someone’s day 999. Be confident, hold your head up high. And before you know it you will trick yourself into believing that. Silence all the negative voices in your head and just do it! Who knows this might become your happy place one day😉
YOU GOT THIS GIRL!