Walking into a new gym can be overwhelming. There are tons of different types of equipment, and everyone else looks super fit and knows exactly what they’re doing. It’s no wonder so many people suffer from gym anxiety!
Whether you’re brand new to working out or returning after a break, here are my top tips and tricks to help you feel more confident at the gym.
Choose the right gym.
It’s important to pick a gym that is a good match for your health and fitness needs.
Before choosing a gym, do some research. Conduct a quick Google search of gyms in your area. Create a list of local gyms that are in your target price range and offer the amenities and features that you’re looking for.
Before committing to a specific gym, make sure to visit it during the hours you’d normally work out. Pay specific attention to how crowded the gym is, the clientele, and the availability of different machines. Do you feel comfortable working out at this gym? If so, great! You’ve found the perfect gym for you.
Set up a few sessions with a personal trainer.
One of the biggest causes of gym anxiety is not knowing what to do at the gym. After all, there are so many different types of weights and machines- how do you know where to start?
That’s easy- ask a personal trainer! Many gyms offer a free consultation with a PT when you sign up. You can use this time to get an overview of the equipment that the gym offers, or ask specific health and fitness questions. If you need help developing a workout routine or more specialized guidance, you can sign up for regular sessions.
A personal trainer will not only teach you proper form and workout techniques, they will also make sure you’re on track to achieve your health and fitness goals. Following their direction should help you feel less uncertain and more optimistic!
Find a gym buddy.
Another great way to feel more confident in the gym is to get a gym buddy.
Working out with a friend will help keep you accountable. You’re much less likely to cancel on a friend than you are to cancel on yourself. Plus, going to the gym with a friend is fun! Instead of causing anxiety, you can make the gym an activity to look forward to.
Even better, if your workout partner is more experienced than you, they can give you fitness tips and tricks! When I first started going to the gym with my boyfriend Stephen, he taught me a lot about weightlifting. He helped me create a more balanced workout plan and introduced me to new exercises so I could get stronger.
Finally, gym buddies can inspire you to push yourself. If you’re struggling to hit that last rep, a good friend will motivate you to push through it! A great gym buddy will cheer you on and encourage you to do your best.
Listen to an awesome playlist.
One of the best ways to pump yourself up before a workout is to listen to a motivating playlist.
A great workout playlist includes fast-paced, lively songs- preferably from your favorite genre! To find a great playlist, try searching Spotify or your favorite music app. If you need more help, feel free to steal my current weightlifting soundtrack.
I don’t know about you, but when I listen to one of my favorite songs I feel like I can conquer anything- even a tough workout!
Wear an outfit that makes you feel confident.
Want to know a great trick to help you feel confident in any situation? Wear a fantastic outfit that helps you look and feel your best!
This tip applies to the gym, too. I always feel more confident and excited to work out when rocking a stylish gym fit.
Luckily, there are many companies on today’s market that sell well-made, fashionable workout clothing. Some of my favorites include Lululemon, Buffbunny Collection, and Gymshark.
If you’re looking for a few staple pieces that will help you feel fit and fabulous, here are a few pieces from my activewear closet that I wear time and time again.
Join a group fitness class.
Are you looking to get healthy, have fun, and possibly make some friends in the process? A group fitness class is a great way to stay social and feel more comfortable in the gym!
Group classes provide guidance and tips that can help people of all levels boost their abilities. They also inspire you to work out regularly as well as push yourself to match the pace of the class.
Many gyms offer a wide variety of classes to match your interests, fitness level, and desired workout times. Some of my favorite group fitness classes include yoga, Jiu Jitsu, and indoor cycling.
Realize that nobody is judging you.
At the end of the day, everyone else is going to the gym for the same reason you are: to improve their health and fitness. Most people are going to be too busy with their own workout to focus on you.
When I went back to the gym after several months of not working out, I was overcome with anxiety about going to the gym. I was worried that other gym-goers would laugh at me for being weak or overweight.
In reality, most people didn’t pay any attention to me at all. The few that did were very kind and supportive! Several girls who were much fitter than me complimented my gym outfits, and a few said that they’d noticed how much stronger I’d gotten since joining the gym. Their kindness helped me feel less self-conscious. As a result, I became much more confident when working out!
Everyone has to start from somewhere. At one point in their fitness journey, every single person in your gym was a beginner. Some day, you’ll be the strong, confident gym-goer that inspires other people to achieve their goals!
