I’m too scared to go to the gym.
Hello,
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” ~ Lao Tzu
I’ve had plenty of clients who were very nervous to start at a gym but took the all important first step and were so happy they did. I suggest a gym like Planet Fitness as their marketing slogan is “Judgement Free” (No trolls… I don’t work for PF!). The gym’s main cliental are average Joe’s so you won’t see a lot of bodybuilder/meathead types. I suggest making your first step finding a place that you think works best for you. The second step should be going to the gym during off hours (mid afternoon or later at night) and getting a tour and if you like it sign up right away. That way you have done the hardest part. Afterwards make a chart and put it on your medicine cabinet, fridge, or any high traffic area in your house and give yourself a big star or checkmark every time you go to the gym. Seeing this progress will motivate you to keep moving forward. In the end it is the little things that we do each day that help us reach our big long term goals. You can do it!
Best of luck with everything!
Coach John Kane CPT
P.S. If you are starting from scratch I would suggest hiring a trainer to help you start a good workout plan to teach you all the exercises and to help you meet your goals. This will pay off in huge dividends later on down the road!
There are lots of ways to improve your health without ever setting foot into a gym, so my first question is, is there a specific reason you want to exercise in a gym? For example, if you love the idea of taking group classes, then a gym or a studio or a community center are kind of necessary. But on the other hand, if you just want to get more healthy and fit, you might find lots of ways to do that without having to go to a gym.
Community centers tend to have smaller classes and have a wide variety of types of people who use them. That might be a place to start.
An in-home trainer could help, or an online trainer. If that sounds too expensive, perhaps small group personal training will give you a friendly but small group to exercise with, with a trainer supervision.
Hello Gabriela Sophis,
No worries; thank you for contacting us.
The way to start would be with a personal trainer in your own environment where you are most comfortable. My best experiences with clients is in their home; this way I am able to understand their strengths and weaknesses better. The client is able to exercise however they choose while wearing whatever they choose. The best part is the time saver: no need to worry about appearance, travel, changing clothes, etc.
My best advice is that you find a personal trainer who will travel to your home, if that is where you are most comfortable. The trainer will keep everything confidential to help you reach your goals and alleviate any fears you may have while improving your confidence.
Please keep in mind that you do not need to stay with the first trainer you hire if something does not feel right. We are not offended and understand that there are many personalities for a reason. Shop around for a trainer until you find the trainer you like best.
Here is the link to find a trainer in your area:
http://www.ideafit.com/fitnessconnect
Thank you,
Natalie aka NAPS 2 B Fit.
Hi Gabriela,
First, it is great that you reached out for advice. That means you are thinking about going to the gym and want to do it–you just need a little help getting to that next step. 🙂 I can certainly understand your anxiety over this, so here are a few steps that can make your transition a little easier:
–You could go at a time when the gym is very slow (check with your local gym, but this could be late morning or early afternoon). Wear what makes you comfortable, and remember, people will be doing their own workout and likely too occupied with themselves to pay much attention to you!
–Go with a plan or just a small goal for that day. Example: “Today I will walk for 15 minutes” and then leave. You will feel great that you accomplished your goal and more likely to go back for more. It WILL get easier each time and you WILL gain confidence.
–Find a friend or family member to go with you. Support is always a great thing and you will encourage each other.
–Find an employee of the gym to help you with a machine or answer any questions you have. This may make you feel more comfortable.
I hope some of these ideas encourage you to find either a gym or community center that suits you to start your journey. You could also hire a personal trainer who understands your needs and concerns.
You deserve it! P.S.–Keep us posted.
Best,
Christine
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