its about confidence
We’ve all been there— walking cautiously through the gym, unsure where to go in the chaos, and then maybe just opting for the treadmill to get out of the way. I know from personal experience exactly how that feels.
SO how do we make that change? It takes time to adjust when you’re stepping out of that comfort zone, and can take even more time to be confident in doing so. Here are some steps to take that can help:
Wear something you LOVE— I know this one can be overhyped and talked about often. But really, the better you feel in your clothes, the better you’ll feel stepping into different places, including the gym. I know this is true in my day-to-day life as well, not just in the fitness clothes world.
Go with a friend— whether or not your friend is more experienced in the gym, going with a partner can help pull your guard down and laugh it all off.
Start with finding a section you’re comfortable in— don’t want to walk through the middle of the weight section just yet? Start small, maybe grab a few weights and a mat and head to an open corner section for the majority of your workout. When it feels right, take an end bench in the dumbbell section and set up there. Before you know it, you’ll feel more comfortable walking through and taking up space in any section.
Go during off hours— a full packed gym can be a lot. If you can, go when the gym is less crowded. (I’d say do this forever if your schedule allows honestly) When you can build confidence in what you’re doing when there’s less people around to mess up your groove, then that confidence can be carried into a busier gym setting.
Remember that even experienced gym members get overwhelmed— I’ve been a member at a gym for 13 years and a trainer for 7. There are times where I lap the gym like a lost puppy because every machine or bench I had planned for my (or my client’s) workout is being used.
Also remember that everyone is a beginner at something, in the gym or in life, and no one there is judging you for bettering yourself.
The “intimidating gym bros” are normally very nice and would probably love to answer any question you might have as long as you aren’t interrupting a set.
Have a PLAN—don’t go in and wing it. That’s one way to lose all direction in what your doing and probably just go home.
Have a BACK UP plan— in case the machine you were planning to use is taken
Ask for HELP— work with a professional to guide you in the right direction and take the guesswork out of what you need to do.
