Do you feel intimidated going into the weights section of the gym?
Many of us do or did at some point. Many opt to work out at home, or simply stay in the cardio rooms to avoid other gym-goers.
A lot of women go to get the weights they need, then find a quiet corner to do their workouts uninterrupted. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to get your workouts done without feeling like you are on stage, but the last thing I would want is for gym anxiety to get the best of you and prevent you from having your best workout possible.
So if you have ever felt nervous or intimidated heading to the gym, or even just going near the weight lifting section, here are my top tips for working past gym anxiety.
1. REMEMBER - THIS IS FOR YOU. Give yourself a pep talk on your way to the gym or when you’re walking over to get the weights you need. You’re here to better yourself and that’s what is worth focusing on.
2. MOST PEOPLE ARE TOO BUSY LOOKING AT THEMSELVES TO NOTICE YOU. If their eyes do wander, it’s because they’re curious who is looking at THEM, not the other way around. If you feel like eyes are on you, remind yourself they’re likely just thinking about themselves because it’s usually true!
3. IF THEY ARE LOOKING, FOCUS ON YOURSELF. Maybe your form isn’t perfect and someone is noticing. Just keep focusing on your workout because two weeks from now they might notice how much you’ve improved. Let your improvements in form, strength, and endurance be an inspiration to others.
4. NEVER COMPARE YOUR CHAPTER 1 TO SOMEONE ELSE’S CHAPTER 30. If you see someone in the gym that you admire and you feel you’re just not at that level yet, consciously remind yourself that they, too, started at Chapter 1. Keep going and you’ll be at your own Chapter 30 in no time!
5. IF SOMEONE MAKES A NASTY COMMENT, THIS IS A REFLECTION OF THEM. Even if they “physically” look great, if they feel the need to say something to someone who is clearly trying to better themselves, they must be hurting inside.
6. NOT EVERYONE HAS PHYSICAL GOALS. At some point, you will begin to work out because you love it, not just because you want a great body. When you see someone who isn’t as physically fit at the gym, think of all the non-physical benefits they’re experiencing. Those non-physical benefits are just as important as the physical ones.
7. FOCUS ON THE BIG PICTURE. If you’re feeling nervous or anxious about going to the gym, ask yourself, “In one year, will I remember this day?” Probably not. Try not to let things the little things get to your head. Make an effort to tell yourself not to ‘sweat the small stuff!’. The stress alone is more damaging than the act itself.
8. THIS JOURNEY DEMANDS THAT YOU GET UNCOMFORTABLE. If you’re pushing yo
urself, not just physically but mentally and emotionally, that’s a good thing! Learn to get comfortable with being uncomfortable - it builds character!
9. GET SO IN THE ZONE THAT YOU DON’T EVEN NOTICE WHO ELSE IS AROUND. This is a win-win since it pretty much guarantees an amazing workout! Don’t overthink it, go in - focus on your workout and then walk out - like a boss!
10. ARRIVE PREPARED. There’s nothing worse than wandering around the gym because you’re not sure what to do next. If you’re not following a set workout program, I highly recommend following one. It will take away those in-between moments when you’re figuring out what to do next. It will also help you to stay in the zone and avoid feeling anxious.
Good luck and enjoy!
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