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It’s now February, and you still haven’t started your New Year’s resolution of going to the gym. It may be because you haven’t made the time or you just don’t feel like it, but for many of us, we’re having a hard time stepping through those doors without feeling uneasy.
The biggest fear when it comes to the gym starts with judgment. According to a study by Sport England, 75 percent of women have put off exercise for fear of what others think. I’ve been going to the gym for a little over a year now and I still face this dilemma.
Photo: Brianna Felder
In my experience, the best way to get over this anxiety is by being prepared. Before you step in the gym, know what part of your body you are going to work out and how you plan to achieve that. If you decide to work out your legs for that day, figure out what exercises you might need to do prior to walking into the gym—this part may take a little bit of research.
Take a bit of time scrolling through Google to get familiar with what certain exercises you want to do to target specific muscles. Once you’ve accomplished this, you can strut through the gym without thinking people are judging you for not knowing what you’re doing.
Another helpful tip is to get familiar with the gym you go to. If you know where all the equipment you need will be located, it’ll make your life infinitely easier. A good way of doing this without looking like you’re wandering around lost is to make your way to the treadmill, which is usually easy to spot, and while you’re walking, take in your surroundings. This makes you look like you know what you’re doing while you scope out the area, plus you can start your workout.
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However, some of this gym fear may not come from a lack of knowledge. Many women feel that they have to already be in shape to go to the gym, otherwise, they lack confidence while there. I got around this issue by starting exercising at home first. Once I got the confidence and felt a little stronger, the journey to the gym was a bit less intimidating. It also helps if you have an awesome workout outfit.
The easiest way to avoid gym intimidation is by visiting the gym during off hours. Now you can avoid those huge crowds of guys hogging the Smith machine while you desperately wait to do your squats. So, go ahead and turn on that motivational playlist and enjoy your uncongested gym.
And as said best by Chelsea Miller, “Your health is more important than fear.”
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