Being a first time gym-goer might appear daunting to some, but it doesn’t have to be! With the right tips and strategies, you can feel confident and comfortable in your gym routine.Â
In this blog, we’ll provide you with advice to help you overcome your anxiety and reap the benefits of regular exercise for both your physical and mental health.
What Can Trigger Gym Anxiety?
Gym anxiety can stem from a variety of different factors, including past negative experiences at the gym, fear of judgement or comparison to others, and social anxiety.
Previous Experiences at the Gym:
If you’ve had a negative experience at the gym in the past, such as feeling embarrassed or uncomfortable, this can make it difficult to return. It can also be harder to overcome this form of anxiety.
Fear of Judgement or Comparison:
Many people feel self-conscious about their bodies and fear judgement from others. This can be especially true for those who are just starting to exercise or who have a weight loss goal. It’s important to remember that everyone has to start somewhere and that everyone is at different levels of fitness.
Social Anxiety:
People with social anxiety may find it difficult to exercise in a group setting. However, the gym can be a great place to overcome this and build confidence by working out around like-minded people in a setting that caters for individual and group exercise.
Everyone has different reasons for feeling anxious, remember that we are all individuals and that what works for one person may not work for another. It may take some trial and error to find the right approach, but with patience and persistence, it is possible to overcome gym anxiety.
Strategies for Overcoming Gym Anxiety
Start Small
Starting with shorter, less intense workouts and gradually increasing the duration and intensity can help to ease into an exercise routine.
Bodyweight exercises such as push-ups, squats and lunges can be a good way to ease into strength training.
Find the Right Environment
For some people, a quieter, more low-key gym may be a better fit. Whereas, for others, a more intense, high-energy gym could be more motivating.
Look for gyms that offer classes or one-to-one tailored-fitness programmes, which can provide a more structured workout and a sense of community.
Work with a Personal Trainer or Friend
Another strategy is to work out with a friend or a personal trainer. Having someone to workout with can help provide support and boost your self-confidence. Personal trainers can help you to develop a workout plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. They can also provide guidance and support as you work to overcome your gym anxiety.
Focus on Progress rather than perfection
It’s important to remember that progress is more important than perfection. Don’t compare yourself to others and focus on your own progress and improvement.
Machines and Gym Workouts
Strength and cardio training are an essential part of a gym workout, as they help to build muscle and burn calories, leading to weight loss. For those with gym anxiety, the thought of using free weights or using a mat to perform your own exercise routine in the gym can be intimidating at first. If this is the case for you why not start by trying out some of the machines? Whether it’s the treadmill or a weight machine they all have instructions on how to use them and you can pick a pace or weight that suits you. As you become more comfortable, you can start incorporating free weights and other types of exercises into your workout if that’s what you want to do.Â
It’s also important to remember that you don’t always have to do strenuous exercise to see results. Start with shorter, less intense workouts and gradually increase the duration and intensity as you become more comfortable in the gym and begin to figure out what works best for you and your body.
Be Aware of Physical Symptoms of Anxiety
Don’t let anxiety hold you back from the benefits of exercise, it’s common to experience physical symptoms. Regular exercise can actually help reduce these sensations over time. To ease into it, start with low-impact activities like walking or cycling and gradually increase intensity as you feel more comfortable. Remember to always listen to your body and stop if you feel overwhelmed
Empower Your Mind to Tackle Gym Anxiety
Your self-talk can make a world of difference in overcoming gym anxiety. Instead of letting negative thoughts hold you back, reframe your mindset to one of growth and progress. Pay attention to your inner dialogue and replace any limiting beliefs with positive affirmations. By embracing a growth mindset, you’ll focus on your progress and abilities, rather than your limitations. Keep in mind that improvement takes time and be patient with yourself.
How Can an Aura Gym Membership Help You?
At Aura Leisure, we understand that overcoming anxiety about going to the gym can be a difficult challenge, but our gym membership can provide the right support to help you along the way.
Our staff is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members. Personal trainers and group fitness instructors can provide guidance and a sense of community. Our fitness centres offer a supportive and inclusive environment, expert guidance, and a wide range of workout options to help members overcome their gym anxiety and achieve their fitness goals.