Shouldn’t the hardest part of working out be the workout?
For many people, going to the gym can be daunting especially when you’re starting out and aren’t sure where to begin. If you’re reading this article, you’re likely a person who wants to work out but struggles with intimidation and anxiety of being in the gym…we’ve all been there! With this article, we hope to give you some ideas and suggestions on how to overcome your ‘gymtimidation’ factor so that you can finally get the benefits of exercising at the gym that you’ve been dreaming about!
Embrace your inner (City) athlete
If you’re a first-time gym user, chances are you’ll walk into your first session feeling a little intimidated—and that’s ok. I can promise you that even the most assured gym goer feels slightly timid walking into a new training environment. Don’t let it deter you though! You are here because you made a conscious effort to be here, be proud of this and remember that something is always better than nothing.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
You should always feel empowered and supported at your gym, not intimidated. If you have concerns about being new to a facility or equipment, don’t be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help from a trainer or staff member. They’re there for support and likely got into the health and fitness industry because of a want to help others achieve. If this doesn’t sound like your gym chances are you’re at the wrong one!
Try not to Focus on Others
It can be easy to feel discouraged if you look around and notice that other people are lifting heavy weights or sprinting on a treadmill. Once you’re there, though, your biggest obstacle isn’t what everyone else is doing, it’s you. Remember that everyone has their own fitness journey, and they would have started in the exact same shoes you did. There is no shame in working your way up!
Music Makes you Lose Control! (and keep calm)
The same way that high-energy music can make you more excited about a workout, listening to the right music can help calm your nervous system both of which can help reduce stress and anxiety. It can also make you less aware of how hard you’re actually working, so think out the box when creating your gym playlist!
Use Goals and Visualisation
Being able to describe your goals in written form, is strongly associated with goal success. In fact you are 42 percent more likely to achieve your goals if you write them down. Before you step foot inside a gym, take a moment to visualise your workout. Decide how long your workout will be and write everything you’re going to do during your session down. This doesn’t have to be in a fancy diary, notes on your phone work just as well. Make sure to tick them off as you go for added motivation!
City Athletic is a boutique gym chain offering the latest state-of-the-art equipment, with the space, exclusivity and expertise for each and every member’s needs and goals. A friendly judgement free community offering something truly unique within the London fitness industry. Enquire today for your chance to trial for free!
Back to our news Top