gym-timidation

"Gymtimidation" is a colloquial term that combines the words "gym" and "intimidation." When I use it, I am referring to the feelings of intimidation or self-consciousness that some individuals experience when they go to a gym or fitness center. Gymtimidation can be a significant barrier for absolutely anyone - whether you are new to working out, have low self-confidence when it comes to their physical abilities, etc.

Let's define a few components

1. Fear of Judgment/Comparison Trap: Many people worry that others at the gym will judge them based on their appearance, level of fitness, or exercise technique. This fear of being negatively evaluated can lead to self-consciousness and anxiety. It's common for individuals to compare themselves to more experienced or fit gym-goers, leading to feelings of inadequacy. This can be discouraging and hinder one's motivation to continue exercising.
2. Lack of Knowledge: Equipment, weights, bands, benches - it can all feel absolutely WILD. People who are new to exercise may feel overwhelmed by the unfamiliar equipment, exercises, and routines found in a gym. This lack of knowledge can make them feel out of place and unsure of what to do.
3. Social Anxiety: Gyms can be crowded and, on top of that, some individuals struggle with social anxiety, which can be exacerbated in a gym setting where there are other people around. The fear of interacting with others or feeling watched can be overwhelming.
4. Body Image Issues: People with poor body image may feel uncomfortable in a gym setting, particularly if they believe they don't fit societal beauty standards or have specific insecurities about their appearance.

Now...how do we conquer this uphill battle?!

1. Start Small: Begin with less crowded or beginner-friendly fitness facilities, or even start with at-home workouts until you gain confidence. Then, focus on "gradual exposure" where you increase your comfort level and spend more time at the gym, try maybe one new excercise per week.
2. Seek Guidance: Consider a few avenues:
3. Work with a personal trainer who can create a tailored workout plan and provide instruction on using gym equipment.
1. Follow trainers, fitness influncers, etc. on social media and/or YouTube to learn about different exercises, proper form, and gym etiquette to build your confidence.
2. Download a program! like my 4-week program below, SWEAT by Kayla Itsiness, Whitney SImmons, etc.
3. Bring a friend: Exercising with a friend can provide support and make the gym experience more enjoyable.
4. Full body focused: I think full body workouts are always the way to go for beginners. I find that with my newer (and even more seasoned clients!!) that full body workouts leave them less sore because they are not solely focusing on wearing out one specific body part (and instead spreading the love ◡̈ ).

Remember...

Most people at the gym are focused on their own workouts and are not paying as much attention to others as you might think. Over time, as you become more familiar with the gym environment and gain confidence in your abilities, gymtimidation can become less of an obstacle to your fitness journey.