The gym can be a daunting place for newbies, or even some seasoned gym-goers. There is loud music, bright lights, large machines and people who all look like they know what they’re doing. But none of this should deter you from entering this space; it is for everyone! So, here are a few tips and tricks you can follow to help you become more confident in the gym.
Go To Classes
Signing up to classes can be a great way to get to know the gym and the trainers who work there. In a class, you are told what to do by an instructor, instead of being left to your own devices, meaning you are less likely to do something wrong. You can also get tips from the instructor and possibly other participants.
There will be classes that include gym equipment use, so this could be a great way to become more confident in the gym when using the machines, if you are unsure.
Buddy Up
Bringing a buddy to the gym has a host of benefits. If they are well-versed in the gym, then you have your own personal trainer almost. They can teach you the basic dos and don’ts of the gym and possibly even give you a workout plan and teach you how to use the equipment.
If your buddy is also a newbie, then having them around can still help you. It will give you someone to talk to, making you less self-conscious about just standing around and worrying if people are looking at you.
Having a friend go with you also has someone to hold you accountable. You may stop going to the gym if you are only doing it for yourself. But, if you know you are letting your friend down by not going, then you are more likely to keep up with it.
Briefly Invest In PT’s
Personal trainers (PT’s) are a great way to help you with your confidence in the gym. They can tell you how to operate all machines, will give you a personalised plan and can give you pep talks about confidence.
The one downside to PT’s is that they can be quite expensive. So, if you can afford to, maybe invest in a PT for one or two months. They will show you all the basics, give you your plan and then you can work on your form with them. Then, once you part ways, you will be set with the skills to carry on by yourself.
No One Is Looking
Many new gym-goers get stressed and anxious about other people staring at them and passing judgement. However, the reality is that no one really cares about you. In the nicest possible way, everyone is more concerned about their own workout than yours.
If you think about it, how often to you stare at someone else whilst you are working out and pass judgement on them? Probably not that often, or at all.
If you can’t shake this feeling, maybe begin by working out in a corner of the gym. Take your weights or mat to a quieter section of the gym and build up your confidence from there.
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