Often, it can be a daunting experience when faced with such an intimidating, embarrassing and potentially awkward situation in an unfamiliar environment. The fear or uncertainty of equipment, classes or fitness levels can affect your anxieties, however, you are not alone. Feelings of insecurity at the gym and is found across everyone no matter what gender, size, strength or how active you are. 

Here at 27/7 fitness, we understand that overcoming gym anxiety is the first step to helping boost your productivity and mindset. Follow these simple tips to help get over your gym anxiety today.

Plan Your Workout

The most important and valuable step you can take to overcoming gym anxiety is to plan your workout. Focus on a routine (not results and overtime) and you will start to see that exercising will become an energising and relaxing part of your lifestyle as opposed to a burden. 

Planning ahead of time what you’re doing to accomplish your workout will give you something to focus on, leaving little or no time to compare yourself to others. By concentrating on you and your own workout, you will be able to accomplish far more than if you spent time worrying what others are doing, chances are they’re thinking the exact same. 

If you’re finding it hard to focus and block out the distractions of others, try plugging in some earphones and work out to your favourite music or television show. Alternatively, you can look for an online exercise course to keep you focused and on track.

Ask For Help

If the tasks you’ve set yourself still seem a bit daunting, or you are faced with an unfamiliar piece of equipment, then don’t be afraid to ask for help! The instructors are there to make sure you are using the equipment correctly for your own safety, not to judge you on how long you use it. If you’re a first time gym starter, ask for a tour of the place or some help with explaining what the machines do and how to work them. 

Alternatively, get talking about the type of classes that there are on offer, you may find that joining a class is a good way to build up a social circle of familiar faces which will also help with your gym anxieties. Remember, personal trainers love to answer questions in order to help you improve your form so build up a relationship where you can.

Go During Off-Peak Hours

Peak hours can vary depending on what gym, however, the busiest time to visit a gym is usually between 8am to 11am and 4pm to 7pm. Working outside these hours means there are less people at the gym and therefore less chances of feeling daunted by others around you - it also means not having to fight for the available equipment! Be sure to ask at the desk when the quietest hours are for your particular gym and work around them accordingly.

Bring A Friend

When it comes to gym anxiety, it’s always good to have someone around you to turn to, who understands and will be there to support you. If you struggle to stay motivated or feel uncomfortable going along, try bringing a friend with you. By doing this you will feel far more relaxed and be able to enjoy your workout a lot more and laugh off any awkward experiences. If your friend doesn’t already have a membership, try signing them up to a day pass so they can join you just for the day to keep you motivated.

Build On Your Confidence

Finally, believe in yourself! The best way to get over gym anxiety is to face it head on. By doing one or more of the tips suggested, you will slowly be able to build confidence and no longer feel overwhelmed with the idea of ‘gym fear’. Soon, if you are going on a regular basis, the gym will begin to feel like a comfortable and familiar environment which is when you can start to step out of your comfort zone and experiment with new exercises and routines. It is important to switch these up in order to get the most out of your gym experience.