You are a beginner or have not trained for a while and are intimidated by it
Maybe you recently changed gyms and are still finding your way
You have difficulty using the devices because you don't know how to adjust them
You find it difficult to change in the locker room in front of others or even take a shower
For example, as a woman, it can be intimidating to go to a gym where there are a lot of men
And crowded studios can also make many people uncomfortable
Especially now at the beginning of the year, when the sporting New Year's resolutions are still strong, but so is the weaker self, many people find it difficult to go to the gym. But have you ever thought about the fact that it's not (just) unhealthy habits that are preventing you from following through with your exercise program? Maybe you have"Gym Anxiety", alsoFear of the gym– because that’s how more and more people feel now. Luckily, we know a few simple tricks to help you overcome fear.
What is “Gym Anxiety” anyway?
In a perfect world, the hardest part of going to the gym would be this– and not the way there. However, if you're worried about navigating the equipment, being watched or judged, or even using the locker room, you're not alone. Fear of the gym, also called “gymtimidation,” is common.
What can trigger gym anxiety?
Like any type of fear, gym fear can be complex and individual, but the most common triggers are:
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Tips for Overcoming Fear of the Gym
We know a handful of strategies that can help you overcome gym fear and get a great workout:
1. Tip against “Gym Anxiety”: Do your research
The cause of some worries is the fear of the unknown. So if you find out as much as you can about your gym beforehand, you'll feel more confident. To do this, research the facility and the course offerings online and familiarize yourself with the building and staff.
2. Tip against “Gym Anxiety”: Start slowly
You don't have to go all out on your first visit to the gym. Start by setting small goals – like 10 minutes on the treadmill. From there you can slowly improve.
3. Tip against “Gym Anxiety”: Training with a trainer
A trainer can show you which exercises suit your goals, how to set up the equipment or how many training sessions you should complete. They also show you where everything is - so you can find your way around the studio and the equipment better.
4. Tip against “Gym Anxiety”: A gym partner
Having a trusted person at your side can offer you support and this takes away some of the uncertainty. Once you feel comfortable exercising with a friend, girlfriend or family member, you can venture out on your own.
5. Tip against “Gym Anxiety”: Try group classes
For some people, working out in a group alleviates the anxiety that comes from not knowing what to do in the gym. Here you can simply orientate yourself on the trainer or other trainees.
6. Tip against “Gym Anxiety”: Make a training plan
A plan also takes away the fear of the unknown. Because when you know exactly which exercises you want to do and in which order, you can concentrate on your training and not on the uncertainty of what you have to do next.
7. Tip against “Gym Anxiety”: Keep going
The more you go, the more confident you will become and the easier it will be for you to enter the gym.
