If you’re feeling inspired and motivated to go to the gym, but are nervous that you won’t know what you are doing, you aren’t alone! Gym anxiety is a real thing and can sometimes feel like gym intimidation. If you want to get into the gym but are too nervous of what people will think or how you will look, here are some tips that can get you through!
I always say once you get over that first goal of going into the weight room or doing what you want, then you’re golden! You already did it once, so you know you can do it again!
1.) Have a plan
What are you going to the gym for? Do you want to do cardio? Full body? Arms, legs? It is crucial to have a plan of what you want to do before you get to the gym, in order to appear confident with where you are going and to be more time efficient. Figure out what area you would like to focus on and STICK TO IT. Sometimes it’s easy to just do whatever you feel like, but stick to one group because this will help you have a more structured workout split in the long run.
2.) Educate yourself
Once you have figured out what body part you would like to focus on, go on Youtube and search exercises that you can do for that muscle group! For example, search “Beginner exercises for arms” or if you want to be more general, “Beginner exercises for upper body” or lower body, etc. These videos will show you simple yet effective exercises and ensure that you are doing them CORRECTLY, because form is crucial when working out your muscles! And this will help you look like you know what you’re doing!
3.) Make a good playlist
For me, having a good playlist before I go to the gym has a big impact on what kind of workout I will have. If I already have songs set up, I won’t be wasting my time browsing for a song and taking up a machine that someone wants to use. Having a good playlist will also help you stay in the zone and block out any outside sources that you don’t need to worry about!
4.) Limit phone time
Going off of number 3, be sure to limit how much you go on your phone. You should NOT go on social media while at the gym. This is a waste of time, ESPECIALLY when you are on a machine that someone wants to use. Nothing is worse than seeing someone on their phone for more than one minute (if they are resting), when you want to use the machine they are on. So DON’T DO IT! Limit your phone use to changing songs, sending a quick text, and of course, emergencies.
5.) Bring a friend
Nothing helps lower anxiety better than bringing a trusted friend with you to support you on this new journey! If they are inexperienced, you can support each other, help each other and LEARN from each other for better future workouts! If they are more experienced than you, they will sure be happy to help you with whatever you need!
Overall, don’t worry about what anyone thinks of you. As long as you are time efficient, no one can get mad at you! Everyone is there to better themselves and you should be proud of yourself for taking that first step to a healthier lifestyle! Follow my fitness journey on Instagram @carlyy.fit!