How to overcome gym fear
The gym, including gym classes, is a classic place for people to feel anxious.
If you experience gym fear, you’re not alone.
Attending a new exercise class for the first time can be an intimidating thought, but with our gym fear tips, you can overcome your anxieties and try out new exercises whilst growing in confidence.
What is gym fear?
Gym fear involves feelings of fear from being judged based on fitness level and/or uncertainty involving gym equipment. Gym fear is a situation experienced by people of all different fitness levels, age, and gender.
Why do I feel awkward at a gym class?
There are many reasons you may feel awkward going to a gym class.
These can include:
- Poor body image
- Low energy and fitness levels
- Been away from the gym for a long period of time
- Lack of motivation
5 tips to break down gym fear
Don’t panic. We’ve got your back with our 5 tips to reduce gym anxieties and help your gym confidence soar.
1. Go with a friend or relative
Going to a class with someone is a winner. You get to spend time with your friend or relative, and try something new at the same time. When you’re with a friend, you feel more relaxed and are able to have fun. Even if you feel a little anxious, don’t be afraid to face your insecurity – share a laugh about it with your friend, and learn from your experience.
2. Check out the facilities and meet the instructor
Make sure you go to the class location in advance, meet the class instructor, and familiarise yourself with the surroundings. This will make you feel more confident.
3. Look for classes that are not part of a big gym
A village hall location is away from the crowds, which should make you feel more comfortable. Linnie Fitness HQ is located at The Yards in Kettering, and doesn’t get too crowded – so you can feel right at home!
4. Be positive
Get in to the mental spirit of trying a new exercise class. You won’t know if you’ll like it if you don’t give it a try, after all! And chances are, after exercise, your endorphins will be pumping and you’re bound to feel good.
5. Arrive early
Arrive early and talk to the class instructor who will be able to gauge interaction for the session. If you feel nervous, it’s absolutely fine to position yourself at the back of the class. Express any concerns with your instructor who will do their best to make you feel better and look out for you during the exercise class.
Extra tip
Have confidence! Even if people are looking at you, convince yourself that it’s because they admire your motivation and dedication toward reaching your goals.
It’s important to keep in mind that everyone has started out in your shoes at some point or another, so don’t give in to those feelings of insecurity!
Keep your goals in mind and crack on with your fitness plans. Go to that class a few more times, and before you know it, you’ll be just as confident as those people in the front row!
Linnie Fitness Exercise Classes
Exercising in groups sometimes reduces the anxiety that stems from not knowing what to do at the gym, as you can follow the instructor or fellow exercisers. Once you feel comfortable and part of the group fitness community, you may even benefit from better overall mental health as well as physical.
Linnie Fitness HQ:
Unit 12 The Yards
Market Street
Kettering
NN16 0AH
£7 per person / per class (or pay for 4 classes in advance for £20)
You and a friend offer – First Time Only £10 (£5 each)
Booking is not required, just turn up 5-10mins before the class to book in. If you’d like to make sure your space is booked, feel free to drop me a message on Facebook!
Current Class Schedule
Mondays – 18:30 Boxercise
Tuesdays- 17:00 DDP Yoga
Fridays – 18.00 Boxercise
Saturdays – 10:30 DDP Yoga
Why not come along to our brand new location to try us out?