Anxiety at the gym or “gymtimidation” is more common than you think. It is very common for people to feel gymtimidation. Of course, for some people, it may be impossible to overcome gym anxiety overnight. However, with self-awareness, consciousness, and extra props, it’s possible to relieve some stress associated with going to the gym. Here are six tips to get over gym anxiety.
Realize Most People Only Judge Themselves
It’s true; most people are only focused on themselves and their own growth at the gym. A lot of them are even feeling the same way as you. Are you looking around judging other people? Probably not, you were focused on your own growth. Most people are the same. In fact, most people who do notice you would be supportive or helpful if you needed help. Instead of being embarrassed that you don’t know how to use a machine, striking up the courage to ask a stranger will show you one of two things: most people are willing to help, and a lot of people also don’t know how to use that machine!
Remember Who and What Matters
Let’s face it, everywhere you go, there will be that one party pooper. The vast majority of the people at the gym really are focused on their own growth. If you happen to go to a gym where people are judging you, and those people have to work on themselves anyway. And think about this; would you take criticism from somebody you wouldn’t take advice from? Probably not a good idea. Plus, are they a significant part of your life, or just an NPC?
Bring Someone With You
Sometimes it’s hard to find a gym buddy, but you’d be surprised who would be willing to go to the gym with you. Some people are just as nervous, and going with a friend is the final straw that would motivate them. Having someone with you at the gym can help calm your nerves being around strangers. Additionally, it can serve as a distraction to talk to somebody while you exercise. If you really can’t find anyone, call a friend or family member and keep them on your Bluetooth headphones while you exercise.
Change How You Dress
Some people‘s gym anxiety stems from the way they look or the way their body moves. Firstly, it’s natural for stomach rolls to come out when you’re on the bike or leg press. This happens to everyone. However, if it hurts your focus, you can try wearing looser clothes, which is what I do. This way, I feel like I’m in the background. On the other hand, if you are a look good/feel good type of person, perhaps dressing more fashionable can help you feel more confident and less anxious at the gym.
Set Clear Goals
Sometimes, people feel anxious at the gym because they feel like they’re not achieving anything or perhaps even embarrassed about where they started. Remember, there’s a very slim chance that you’ll be the strongest or fastest person in the entire world. However, it’s very likely that you can be stronger or faster than you were yesterday. Check out our article for gym motivation, 10 Science Based Benefits of Resistance Training. When you set goals at the gym, track progress, and meet or exceed them, your confidence skyrockets.
Headphones
Lastly, some people feel comfort in drowning all of the outside noise out. For this, you can use noise canceling headphones like AirPods. Some people can’t get motivated without listening to music, but want to be more aware of their surroundings. I personally use Shokz headphones, but any bone conduction headphones would work. This way, I can listen to my music while hearing what’s happening around me.
Conclusion
A lot of people feel anxious about going to the gym. I promise that it will get better as you go more and more.
It’s important to remember, that most people really aren’t judging you as much as you think they are. The small number of people who are judging you at the gym as in anywhere, aren’t working on themselves hard enough if they’re paying attention to you. If it helps, think of everybody else as an NPC for now.
Sometimes, it can help to bring somebody with you to make you feel more comfortable. I’ve had success asking my sister, my friends, and coworkers. You could also post on social media seeking a friend, or even go on bumbleBFF.
A lot of the time, we don’t realize how much our confidence gets in the way of us enjoying our time at the gym. It might help to change what we wear, whether that means covering up in baggy clothes or finding fashionable gym outfits.
Aside from appearance, it couldn’t be surprisingly helpful to track progress and celebrate reaching goals at the gym. Confidence can reduce feelings of anxiety.
Lastly, it may be worth it to invest in a good pair of headphones. Depending on your preference, you can get noise canceling headphones to drown everyone out, or bone conduction headphones, so you can be aware of your surroundings.
Remember your reasons for going to the gym, remember you’re resilient, and don’t lose sight of your goals. You got this!
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