Coming into something new is hard. Change is hard. Our perception of ourselves we sometimes project onto other people whether we meant to or not. But the gym is a place where everyone is working towards the same common goal – better health, fitness, and well-being. No matter what your goal is, everyone is working to become the strongest, most resilient, and confident versions of themselves they can. And at Merritt Clubs we pride ourselves on that helpful and supportive community! But as this new year approaches and maybe we’re looking to try something new, let’s discuss how we can reduce intimidation and build confidence.
Feeling nervous or self-conscious at the gym is common, especially for beginners. The thought of going into a part of the gym, or even the gym itself can be a scary thought for some. Remember, most people are focused on their workouts, not watching others. And as we become more familiar and consistent, our confidence will also grow with us. Just like muscles, we can grow in confidence. Let’s talk strategies on how to reduce intimidation and build confidence in the gym.
Tip 1: Prepare Before You Go
- Learn the layout of your gym. Go to your gym during non-peak hours (if possible) to familiarize yourself with the equipment they have and the layout of where everything is.
- Plan out your workout by creating a routine or guide the reduce the amount of uncertainty you may have about what to do next.
- Pick out clothes that you feel comfortable and confident in to support your workout. This is important to your overall feelings of confidence.
Tip 2: Start Out Small
- Search for the machines that give you step by step guide in how to use the equipment or focus on bodyweight exercises that don’t require too much thought process.
- Find a fun group fitness class that you can take to work on form, technique, and meet others working towards similar fitness goals as yourself.
- Don’t hesitate to ask a personal trainer for some guidance. The reason they’re there is to help create plans for people and they enjoy helping people! They are there for you!
Tip 3: Adopt the Right Mindset
- Celebrate the small wins by focusing on your progress instead of trying to do everything perfectly. Remember, your fitness journey is personal and a lifelong pursuit. You have to enjoy it every now and then!
- When negative thoughts creep in, challenge them by telling yourself positive affirmations like, “I deserve to be here” or “I’m capable of amazing things”. This positive mindset goes a long way in developing our self-worth and self-efficacy in reaching our goals or sticking with our priorities.
- Acknowledge the growth you’ve already achieved and remember that the gym is YOUR space.
Tip 4: Leverage Your Resources
- Bringing a friend to the gym can reduce anxiety and make your experience more enjoyable by accomplishing hard things together. The more comfortable you feel, the less intimated you’ll be.
- Work with a trainer to learn what, how, and why you do things. A personal trainer is a wealth of knowledge and can guide you, boost your confidence, and ensure you’re doing the right things for you.
- Using apps or videos like Merritt On Demand can help give you resources to structure your workouts appropriately.
Remember, everyone started somewhere. Even experienced gym-goers started somewhere and had to develop the confidence to do the things they do. Fitness is a personal and lifelong pursuit and just as others inspired you to try something new, you are inspiring the new wave of new members! Support for each other goes a long way! We are all trying to achieve the same thing. Let’s get better together!
