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The gym can be a really intimidating place. So intimidating, in fact, that a third of 18-35 year olds (33%) feel too self-conscious to join one, according to a recent survey. Here’s how to build confidence in the gym…
Find the right gym for you
It’s perfectly natural to feel nervous the first time you step into a new gym, especially if you’re at the beginning of your fitness journey. Before you commit to a membership, have a tour of facilities so you can get a feel for the vibe as it needs to be the right fit for you. Ask yourself am I going to feel comfortable exercising here? Picking a gym that’s close to home or work is advised.
Hire a personal trainer
Another common reason why people steer clear of the gym is that they don’t know what the heck to do with all those scary-looking machines. How to combat this? Hire a personal trainer, at least for the first few sessions until you learn the lay of the land. A personal trainer can show you how to use the equipment safely and help build your confidence, as well as create a workout programme.
Train with a workout buddy
Train with a friend because safety in numbers, right? Having an ally in the gym can be hugely beneficial for boosting confidence and also keeping you accountable. Plus, you’ll always have a spotter to check your form.
Arrive with a plan
You want to avoid wandering around the gym aimlessly, so plan your workout before you arrive. This way you’ll know what machines to make a beeline for and what you want to achieve by the end of the session.
Don’t go during peak hours
Until you feel more comfortable try and hit the gym during off-peak hours when it’s not so busy. It’s also a good time to brave the weights room, usually the most feared part of any gym, when there will be less testosterone flying around.
Remember, no-one is looking at you
Honestly, no-one cares what you’re doing because they’re too busy focussing on themselves and getting through their workout. If you need help drowning out the other gym-goers, pop in some headphones and blast the tunes.
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