Motivation

Overcome being self-conscious or nervous at the Gym

So, gyms are reopening and you want to get healthier and lose those lockdown pounds. But now you’re feeling anxious, feeling like you don’t know what you’re doing, worried about super-fit gym bunnies with perfect bodies staring at you; wondering if it was such a great idea after all.

First off, every gym newbie has these worries. Anxiety in new situations is common; you need to navigate unfamiliar surroundings and new activities alongside people you don’t know. You’ve already taken a big step by making a commitment to improving your fitness - here’s how to leave those self-conscious fears in the locker room and get a great, focused workout:

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EVERY JOURNEY HAS A STARTING POINT

No gym newbie starts off knowing how to do everything with perfect technique. All those confident-looking people around you? They used to be you, and they had to learn the ropes just the same as you. Most gyms have a set induction procedure where you’ll learn about the gym environment and the equipment, but if you need help to get started – ask a member of staff. Your gym wants you to be committed to your fitness, and staff are there to help. If you’re still feeling anxious, see if a friend will train with you for your first few sessions while you get to grips with your new training regime.

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NO ONE IS WATCHING OR JUDGING YOU

Remember why you’re at the gym in the first place – whether it’s to get fit, lose weight or build strength. It’s the same reason everyone else is there too, each with their own goals and aspirations. And that’s what they’ll be focusing on, not what you’re wearing, or how good your technique is. And the great thing about the fitness community? Shared goals mean camaraderie, which means a positive and encouraging environment, rather than a judgemental atmosphere.

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WORK HARDER

If you’re feeling self-conscious it means you’re focusing on your surroundings and not on your workout. Get in the zone by giving your workout everything you’ve got. So what if you’re feeling unfit compared to everyone else? If you’re sweating, you’re trying your hardest… and that’s all that matters.

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ZONE OUT TO MUSIC

There’s a lot of evidence to show that working out to music has clear performance benefits and can help you to train harder for longer. But if you’re feeling self-conscious, the benefits are two-fold in that music can help you to zone out from your surroundings and boosts concentration and focus. Plugging in your headphones and listening to your favourite playlist can help focus and motivate your session, calm those nerves and ease anxiety about what’s going on around you – and help you perform better!

If you’re looking for some wireless headphones to work out to, checkout our range of Aftershokz headphones.

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FOCUS ON THE WHYS INSTEAD OF THE WHY NOTS

It’s too easy to get bogged down in reasons not to train when anxiety takes over, to the extent that even setting foot in the gym can seem off-putting and intimidating. Instead of thinking of all the reasons to stay away, take a step back and remember why you decided to start training in the first place. Has anything changed since then? Have your goals and aspirations changed? If the answer is no, then why let a little nervousness get in the way? This is all about you, what you want to achieve and your personal fitness goals, so get down to the gym, get focused and get on your way to achieving them. You’ve got this!

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Are you feeling inspired? Then join our SportsShoes Strava Run Club and become part of our inclusive community.
And for more inspirational tips to become stronger, better and happier, then check out our Motivation category. Because it’s no fun standing still.