How To Overcome Your Anxiety About Going to the Gym

Whether you're new to fitness or returning to the gym after a break, just getting started can be intimidating. We’re here to offer some tips on how you can overcome your gym anxiety and reach your fitness goals at any stage of your journey.

What is gym anxiety?

We have all felt that twisting feeling in our stomachs as we enter the gym area, unfamiliar eyes following us through the room. Gym anxiety can be described as that self-conscious, confidence-diminishing feeling when faced with a potentially awkward or intimidating situation in the gym.

Due to the rise of social media and the need to show off our every achievement on Instagram, our social awareness has heightened. Not only do some of us fear social judgement in person, but now there is a small voice in our heads telling us what we posted on our social media isn’t good enough.

Having anxiety about going to the gym happens to the best of us! Similar to starting a new job, a new school, or giving a presentation, working out in front of others can make us insecure. The act of comparing ourselves to others, and even our own high expectations, can be detrimental when wanting to achieve a certain fitness goal.

How to overcome gym anxiety

Plan out your workout

We are far more likely to feel confident in the gym if we know how to use the equipment. Check if a gym staff member that you feel comfortable with can help you learn the equipment. This way you are prepared for what is to come beforehand and you are not aimlessly walking around trying to find a machine you like.

Write down a list of exercises that pertain to your preferred style of workout, along with the equipment your gym offers that will assist the exercises and follow your list as you go along.

Look into workout classes

Workout classes have become very popular in recent years, with plenty of variety to choose from. Most gyms offer a range of classes in levels from beginner to advanced. Try a Pilates class on Monday and then spice it up with boxing on Thursday. Classes give you the opportunity to see what works for you!

Another benefit is that most class-goers will be more focused on the instructor rather than on other students. You can choose a spot at the back of the class if you feel more comfortable as well.

Set goals for yourself

Ever wonder, “Is a gym membership actually worth it? Am I really achieving my fitness goals?” All of these questions may cause you anxiety and doubt. One way to measure your progress to help keep your motivation up is by getting a fitness tracker. It will instantly show you your results during and after a workout.

Most trackers on your smartwatch or phone provide values for your calories burnt and heart rate. This will give you the motivation to beat your previous goals and a sense of achievement at the end of your workout.

Bring a friend

Invite someone you know and trust when your gym anxiety kicks in. Not only will you keep each other accountable for your goals but also provide motivation. When you are with a friend, you will feel more relaxed and even share an odd laugh if anything embarrassing happens!

Make it an occasion

The fact that you have decided to go to the gym should already be a big achievement. Get yourself some cute gym clothes and make an upbeat workout playlist to go along with your workout. It’s all about your mindset when it comes to things like this. Celebrate all your tiny victories!

Beating your gym anxiety is one of the first steps to living a healthy lifestyle. The more you go the more confident you will feel!