Raise your hand if you want to start going to the gym but the idea of stepping into that world scares you. The gym can be super intimidating. But really most of the intimidation factor is what we have built up in our own heads. The gym is loud, its a wide open space, the machines look confusing and scary, and who the heck is using these 100lb dumbbells?? But let’s take it a step back, and get a good beginner routine in place to get you comfortable with stepping in those doors!
People are not judging you
95% of people at the gym do not care about you or what you’re doing (unless you’re not putting your weights away and using the cable machine as a playground). Everyone else is there for the same reason as you, and that’s to get healthier! People tend to really care about themselves first, and that is no different in the gym. People aren’t watching you, or judging you, they are too busy judging themselves and probably hoping you’re not doing the same to them! In my personal experience, i’m always too worried about myself to notice if someone else is doing a bicep curl right or wrong. Yes, there’s always that 5%, but that goes for everywhere, and we don’t care about those Karens.
Going to the gym for the 1st time
There are a few things I recommend doing the 1st time you go to the gym to make yourself comfortable..
Go in with a plan
Show up to the gym with a plan on what you’re doing, it could be as simple as “I’m going to walk on the treadmill for 30 minutes” or “I’m going to do lower body exercises”. Or you could even go in with an exact workout plan. You’ll want a plan so you aren’t walking around with no idea what to do, the gym can be overwhelming with options!
This workout planner would be a great addition to your gym bag. Write down your plan and goals to help you stay on track! You can do this in your notes app on your phone as well.
Wear something comfortable
Wear something you are comfortable in! This should be something you feel good in and something you like. Nothing is worse than showing up and feeling uncomfortable because of your clothes, this will set the tone for the whole experience!
I also recommend buying a new gym outfit! This can be super motivating just to get you started.
Scope out the gym
Take time to scope out the space! Look at all the machines, and play around with them too! Figure out how they work and where they are. This is huge in making yourself comfortable, there’s nothing worse than not knowing where anything is and feeling like your wandering around aimlessly. Depending on how your gym is set up you can hop on a piece of cardio equipment and look around the space from there!
If your gym has a receptionist, ask them to show you around and give you basic instructions on some of the machines!
Set yourself up in the corner of the gym
Find a nice quite, out of the way place in your gym, grab a couple dumbbells or kettlebells and a mat and take them to your own workout space. This is a great way to ease yourself into the gym. You’re there but you’re still in your own space! Eventually you will gain the confidence to wander out there!
Stay Consistent!
The more you show up to the gym the more comfortable you will become. Try to stay consistent with your routine, start slow and work your way up.
So proud of you for taking these next steps!
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