If you've just started working out or you're looking to start, the gym can be an intimidating place.
Whether it's the gear, the people, the lingo, or any other myriad of things that make us feel like outsiders, there are some ways to help make it feel more like home.
Here are some tips for you to keep in mind when stepping into a gym for the first time that will help you avoid gym intimidation!
1) Go to the Gym With a Partner
Working out with a training partner is a great way to stay motivated and have fun while getting in shape. The benefits of going to the gym with a partner include the following.
Motivation: When you have a workout buddy, you're more likely to go to the gym.
Accountability: Training partners can help keep each other from skipping workouts when they need it most.
Fun: Workouts are more enjoyable when you have someone to laugh and chat with.
Safety: You'll be less likely to injure yourself if you're working out with someone else.
Last, but not least, going to the gym with a training partner is a great way to reduce any anxiety or intimidation you may feel.
2) Listen to Music
Listening to music can help people with anxiety and intimidation at the gym feel more relaxed.
Music therapy has been used for years as a therapeutic tool. It is said that listening to soothing music can promote relaxation, reduce stress levels, or even alleviate pain.
But not only that, music can enhance performance and endurance, reduce perceived effort, and improve your workouts as a result.
3) Train During Off-Peak Hours
The gym can be a busy place at times, a busy place can increase anxiety in some people.
Going to the gym either earlier in the day, or later in the evening, can make your gym experience less daunting.
There is also some evidence that training later in the evening can enhance your workouts due to increased strength and muscle activation.
4) Wear a Hoodie
Wearing a hoodie can be a great way to reduce gym intimidation and anxiety.
Some people are conscious about their body and get intimidated when bigger, slimmer, or more muscular people are around.
Although you should realise nobody is judging you if you are not where you want to be yet, wearing a hoodie can be a great short-term solution to improve confidence.
5) Realise Nobody Is Judging You
Like I mentioned above, nobody is judging you.
Everyone is at the gym for the same reasons; to get a better body, to become stronger, to lose weight, etc.
No matter your body, you are there to improve, which is respectable. You should understand that people are not judging you, but respecting the fact you are there.
The information provided in this article is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a physician or other competent professional before following advice or taking any supplement. See our terms and conditions.