Quite a lot of people who I have interacted with have claimed that they have anxiety with just the thought of joining the gym. So if the thought of going to the gym makes you nervous, you’re not alone. Gym anxiety is something that many people experience. But various strategies can help to manage that anxiety.
Gym anxiety is a real concern. It refers to dread or worry about going to the gym and exercising in front of others. Everyone experiences anxiety, or uneasiness about everyday situations. It’s your body’s natural reaction to stress. And despite the uncomfortable feelings, it can help you adapt to stressful situations.
For example, if you feel a bit anxious while jogging alone, it might make you more aware and help you avoid danger. However, anxiety in excess can be problematic. While it’s okay to be a little nervous about trying a new fitness class or joining a new gym, if intense fear persists or worsens with time, you might have a phobia of the gym, which is a type of anxiety disorder.
You might say that you have it if you feel a bit embarrassed or self-conscious about how you look in gym clothes. Or you might have some dread about going to the gym because of the chance of seeing someone you know who is very athletic. These are not uncommon concerns in the general population.
Why do you feel anxious about going to the gym? There are many potential causes of gym anxiety. You might experience “gymtimidation” if you are a beginner, if you joined a new gym, or if you are worried about changing in front of others.
There are several things you can do to help manage gym anxiety. First, try to identify what’s making you feel anxious about going to the gym. Getting specific will help you decide which tips will be most helpful.
Be prepared. Being prepared can reduce your gym anxiety. Get familiar with the space by researching the facility and exercise equipment. You can also visit the facility, take a tour, and ask plenty of questions.
Work with a trainer. Some gyms offer members one-on-one training. A personal trainer can show you how to use exercise equipment and teach you proper form. This may relieve some of your fears and help you build confidence.
Go with a friend. You may feel better going to the gym if you’re not alone. Working out with a friend can help you feel more at ease and encourage you to keep working toward your fitness goals. So consider asking a friend to join you.
Practice positive thinking. Positive self talk can go a long way for your anxiety. Pay attention to your negative thoughts, and think about how to reframe them. It takes time, but shifting your negative thoughts can be useful at the gym and everywhere else.
Listen to music. Listening to music while you exercise could be just the thing to ease your anxiety. Music can boost your mood.
The more you get to the gym, the easier it will become. And regular exercise can help you manage anxiety. So don’t give up; try to be patient and kind to yourself. Also, remember to celebrate your wins along the way.
