10 Tips For Feeling Confident in the Gym
Going to a gym for the first time can be a daunting idea, especially if you’re not familiar with the layout. Pre-gym jitters are normal, and almost everyone experiences them. Luckily there are some simple tips and tricks you can do to make the whole experience less stressful and more enjoyable.
Have a Pre-Visit
Before you have your first session at the gym, go and have a pre-visit so you know the layout of the gym and what equipment they have. This makes planning your workouts much easier.
Choose the Right Clothing
What you wear can make or break your gym experience. Make sure you’re wearing clothing that you feel comfortable in and that is suitable for the workout you plan to do.
Plan your Workout Before You Go
Before you go to the gym, plan out your workout. Decide what you want to work on that day and stick to it. If you’re stuck for ideas, have a look online for gym routine workouts.
If you don’t plan before you go, you can easily waste time when you’re there wondering what to do. Make the most of your time by having a clear plan in place. By pre-planning your workout, it also stops you from constantly falling back into your default workout routine which can get boring.
Be Prepared
Make sure you have everything you need before you go. That can include water bottles, protein shakes if you use them, post-workout snacks, shower products, and a towel.
Pro-tip: have a designated workout bag where you keep all of your gym stuff together. That way you won’t forget anything.
Start Slow
Getting into a routine of going to the gym is a fitness journey and while it’s helpful to have an end goal, the process will take time. You cannot change the world overnight, so don’t expect your body to change instantly.
It takes time, dedication and patience to get the body of your dreams. Start slow but be consistent and you’ll get there.
As a general rule, it takes roughly 4 weeks before you notice your body changing. It takes 8 weeks for your friends and family to notice, and 12 weeks for the rest of the world to notice.
‘’There is no one giant step that does it, it’s a lot of little steps’’ Peter A. Cohen
Workout In Off-Peak Hours
If you are feeling particularly anxious about who might be at the gym, book your sessions during off-peak hours. That way, it will be quieter and you’ll be more likely to have access to all of the equipment that you want.
Learn How To Use The Equipment Correctly
Another big anxiety point for people using a new gym is how to use the equipment correctly. If you’re unsure about a piece of equipment, ask a member of staff. They are there to help you. They always prefer people to ask rather than to potentially hurt themselves by using a piece of equipment the wrong way.
Take A Friend
To boost your confidence, take along a friend for moral support. Workouts are often more fun with a companion anyway, and you can help to keep each other motivated. Having a friend with you distracts you from your surroundings and can make the whole process more enjoyable.
Don’t Compare Yourself To Others
Everyone in the gym is at a different stage of their fitness journey and everyone's journey is unique to them. Comparing yourself to others will only lead to disappointment. Focus on yourself and your goals.
This is your time to change your life. Focusing on others is just a distraction from your goal.
‘’Don’t compare your beginning to someone else's middle’’- Jon Acuff
Have Fun!
Going to the gym doesn’t have to be an unpleasant experience. Find workouts that you actually enjoy doing. Get addicted to the amazing way your body feels after you have completed a workout.
Start to look forward to your workouts and know that every time you go to the gym you’re one step closer to your end goal.
With a little bit of pre-planning, you can have a great gym experience every time you go. And if you ever find yourself slipping back into gym anxiety, just remember why you started and what you’re trying to achieve. You have made the decision to get fit and to improve your health. Be proud of that and have fun with it!
And If You Need Help, I'm Here
If you need any help with creating an exercise routine, you can sign up for a consultation here! I'm happy to work with anyone who is struggling with their workout routine.
I also have a customizable app to help keep you on track! You can download it here. Remember, as the philosopher Lao Tzu said, "The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." It's time to take yours today.