Do you have gym anxiety? Are you thinking of joining a gym, but really conscious that everyone else will be in shape? Do you think you’ll look stupid by being out of place and not knowing what to do? Here are four reasons to help you overcome the self-sabotaging mindset that stops you before you even get started:
People go to the gym to better themselves
Every single person that goes to the gym goes there to better themselves. Almost everyone is focused on what they are doing, so they aren’t paying attention to you. The ones that are looking at you probably just want to use the equipment you’re currently using. Remember that if you’ve already made up your mind to lose that extra weight and to be healthier by joining a gym, you’re in the right place.
Their judgement doesn’t matter
You should never care about the opinion of people who just want to look down on someone that is there trying to improve. The only opinion that actually matters is your opinion. Did you become better today by progressing, even a little? Do you feel better after that workout session? Let your own body give you the answer, not someone you probably don’t even know. Do it for yourself and not the judgment of others. Most people are nice and willing to help if you ask. That’s right, most people will help you out. Of course, don’t expect them to be your very own personal trainer.
It’s all in your head
Some people struggle with body dysmorphia, thinking they look way worse than they actually do. This shatters their confidence, prevents them from improving their body, their body gets worse over time and thus becomes a self-fulfilling cycle.
You get past this struggle with a few easy tricks. Wear gym clothes that fit properly and aren’t tight. Don’t put on clothes that are too tight, too long or that would fall off during certain exercises. Look up how to use gym equipment on YouTube. There are a lot of videos showing you proper form and are beginner-friendly. Set a goal that’s not directly a measurement of weight loss. For example, try running for X amount of minutes on the treadmill every time for a month instead of losing a certain amount of weight. Then walk in the gym without analyzing too much. You do you. The people there will likely be cheering you on.
You won’t improve by sabotaging yourself with gym anxiety
Just go there, show up and improve. It’s never as bad as the mind thinks it out to be. There is no typical gym goer. You’ll see all types of people, from teenagers to grandparents, from skinny to overweight, from low mobility to highly flexible. If it’s your first time, and you have gym anxiety, no matter your age, just focus on yourself.
Again, every single person at the gym is there to improve themselves. This is the best possible mindset you can have when going to work out, no matter what stage you’re at. Gym time is your time, have fun and do whatever makes you feel strong, better. Add a proper diet and a small tweak to your daily activities, and you’re on your way. Good luck and stay consistent!
