How to gain confidence to go to the gym
Joining a new gym can sometimes be daunting, especially if you are new or you have not been in a while. There are a variety of reasons as to why someone might feel anxious about going to the gym. It could be the experience, the people, the thought of performing an exercise wrong. Here I am going to provide some tips that have helped me gain confidence to go to the gym.
1) Follow a plan
Writing down all of the exercises you plan to do. This will allow you to stay focused and just concentrate on the plan. A lot of the time, people seem to feel anxious in the gym because they do not know what they are doing. By following a plan it will allow you to know which exercises and equipment you will be doing next. This means you are not focusing on looking for equipment or feeling lost and will hopefully feel more confident in yourself.
2) Turn up to the gym comfortably
Wear something you feel comfortable in. If wearing baggy clothes makes you feel good then do this. If you would rather wear shorts and a crop top, then do just that. Wear something you feel confident in. I know it may sound silly as you will be exercising in it, but if you feel good about yourself then you are more likely going to feel confident in yourself too.
3) Go with friends
If you are able to, then go to the gym with friends, work colleagues or join a class. If you decide to go with someone you know, this might make you feel more at ease. Doing the same exercises together and learning together may be more helpful for you. Alternatively, you could join a class to slowly get yourself into exercising. Maybe even speak to the class teacher about ways for you to build up your confidence in the gym. They may have some useful tips too.
4) Inductions
If you do not know anyone who wants to go to the gym with you, get an induction instead. Inductions are a great way to get a tour of your gym and to be shown how to use the equipment. It will allow you to ask questions too on any concerns you may have. Even after the induction, if you are still unsure of how to use certain equipment, ask a member of staff.
Conclusions
The main thing I want you to take away from this is that everyone starts somewhere in the gym. All of the people you see exercising had to begin from the start at some point. No one is really watching you, they are more focused on themselves. The first few gym sessions may feel daunting, but you will get used to it. Just play your favourite music, listen to a podcast or even watch a show on your phone.