Feeling anxious about the gym is a shared experience, but it doesn’t have to hold you back. You can conquer gym anxiety and enjoy your fitness journey with the right strategies. Here are some tips to help you feel more comfortable and confident during your workouts.
-Plan Ahead
One of the best ways to reduce anxiety is to plan your gym visits. Visit during off-peak hours when the gym is less crowded.
The typical quiet times are: 6:30 am-9 am, 10:30 am-2:30 pm and 8:30 pm-3 am.
Take a tour of the gym to familiarise yourself with the layout and equipment. When you join the gym, ensure you get shown around the club. Knowing where everything is can make a big difference in how you feel.
-Set Realistic Goals
Setting realistic, achievable goals is crucial for building confidence. Start small with short, manageable workouts, gradually increasing the intensity and duration. Focus on your personal progress instead of comparing yourself to others. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they seem.
Check out this blog post to help set goals: Celebrating Fitness Progress Beyond the Scale
-Create a Routine
Having a plan can help you stay focused and reduce feelings of uncertainty. Know which exercises you’ll do before you arrive to avoid wandering around and feeling self-conscious. It also helps remove the feeling of being overwhelmed by knowing what to do to achieve your goals. At FnF, we offer structured, personalised programs for you, building your confidence in the gym and keeping you on track to your goals.
-Wear your Favourite outfit
Wear clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident, and choose your favourite outfit, building your confidence and hyping you up. Proper workout gear boosts your self-esteem, making you feel your very best and look bomb at the same time.
-Learn Proper Form
Understanding how to perform exercises correctly can reduce the fear of injury and increase your confidence—Invest in personal training sessions to enhance your knowledge. A few sessions will build your confidence significantly.
-Find a Gym Buddy
Working out with a friend can make the experience more enjoyable and less intimidating. Alternatively, consider joining a group class. The sense of community and structure can help alleviate anxiety and make workouts more fun.
-Use Distractions
Distractions can help you focus and relax during your workout. Bring headphones and listen to your favourite music or podcasts. The pre-gym hype with your favourite playlist is the best way to feel good before you start your session.
-Practice Mindfulness and Breathing
Staying present and focusing on breathing can reduce anxiety and improve your workout experience. Practice mindfulness by concentrating on the movement of your body. Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations to boost your confidence.
-Respect Your Own Pace
Take your time with your exercises. Take your time, and feel free to keep up with others. Listen to your body and take breaks when needed. Remember, it’s your fitness journey, and it’s important to go at a pace that feels right for you. Track your progress in a workout journal or app to see how far you’ve come over time.
-Seek Professional Help
If gym anxiety continues to be a significant barrier, having a personal trainer will build your confidence in the gym and your workouts and give you guidance and support every step of the way.
By implementing these tips, you’ll be better equipped to manage your gym anxiety and make the most of your fitness journey. Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and it’s okay to take small steps towards your goals. With time and practice, you’ll gain confidence and enjoy your workouts more than ever.
Need inspiration? Read The Strength Within How Our Fitness Tribe Builds Mental Resilience
