Some fitness professionals must remember to remember that working in a gym environment only comes naturally to some. Not all studios or gyms have the same structure or mold, making it difficult to exercise in a gym environment.

A gym can cause anxiety or intimidation depending on who you are. This can lead to discouragement and demotivation in newcomers. This phenomenon is known as intimidation. This experience can be described as feeling insecure or threatened by other gym members in a better state of health. This is something that every person will experience at some time in their life—even professionals in health and exercise.

What Causes Gymtimidation

Like any other fear, intimidation is unique for every person. Some people feel intimidated by the size of the gym. Some worry about how the equipment will work or whether they’re “doing something wrong.” Others are concerned about their body image and confidence.

Gymtimidation can thwart one’s best intentions and hinder their efforts to achieve their health goals. It may cause them to cancel a session, skip a session, or even let their membership lapse and not reinstate it. We must remember that only some are born knowing the right way to do things. It is essential to be willing to learn from others.

How to Overcome Gymtimidation

To overcome fear or anxiety in the gym, one must first recognize when it happens and what causes it. These are the questions you should ask yourself before you decide how to deal with the perceived threat in the gym space.

• * How would you describe your concern about going to the gym to a friend or trusted person?
  • * Look into other options. Look around to see what other facilities might be available in the area. A smaller gym might have fewer members. Consider hiring a virtual personal trainer to help you feel more confident about your progress.
  • * Invite a friend. A buddy system provides social support and accountability. Invite a friend to join you for a workout.
  • • Dress comfortably. Gymtimidation can be caused by not feeling comfortable in tight or revealing clothes. Instead of choosing the most popular, invest in the most comfortable gear.
  • * Avoid peak times. There will be peak hours at each gym or studio that are more crowded than others. This usually means the space is crowded between 5-7 a.m. and noon. After 4 p.m., it will be quieter.
  • Consider joining a group class. A small group class or personal training for small groups might appeal to you if you feel more comfortable being part of a group that matches your skills and experience.
  • * Request an orientation. Many gyms offer “intro to equipment” sessions. If you are not told about this as a benefit, ask the manager to tour the gym and teach you how to use the equipment.
  • * Make a power playlist. Music can be a motivator, and it can also help to focus on the environment. You can also listen to podcasts or audiobooks if music is not your preferred genre.
  • Celebrate your victories. If you’re experiencing anxiety, just getting to the gym is a victory. That’s something to celebrate. Keep a log of your achievements each week.
  • * Consider a streaming fitness program. Before joining a gym, you can try an online streaming service if you’re new to the world of physical activity.
  • * Allow yourself to be patient and allow for space. It is normal to feel nervous and anxious in a gym environment. It is something that many others experience (I have also experienced it at new gyms). Recognize and accept the possibility that it might happen multiple times. It is okay to feel this way.