Scared of the Gym? These Tips Can Help You Feel Safe
By Genevieve Cunningham
The gym can be intimidating. There are fitness buffs everywhere. There's equipment with a million buttons. There are classes with names you can't pronounce. All you want to do is run for a few minutes on a treadmill, but it ends up being way more than you bargained for. Unfortunately, this initial intimidation keeps many people from ever improving their health and getting in shape. So what can you do to become more comfortable in the gym? If you need a little help finding the nerve to tackle the gym, take a look at these tips.
Ask for Help
Don't think that being at the gym makes you alone. There are people everywhere, and believe it or not, most of those people are incredibly nice. They might be able to answer your questions or point you in the right direction. But even more than the people around you, you can ask a gym worker or a personal trainer for guidance. This will take a lot of guesswork out of it. They'll guide you to the proper equipment, show you how to use it, and allow you to skip much of the gym equipment that isn't suited to you or your goals.
Take a Friend
Many times, things don't seem as intimidating when you're together with a friend. If you tend to enjoy company, take a friend with you to the gym. If possible, choose a fitness minded friend. But if you don't have a fitness minded friend, choose one who might like to try something new. One who likes challenges. By bringing along a friend, you might ease your own fear and convert a friend to join the health and fitness world too.
Have a Plan
Know what you want to do before you ever step foot in the gym. Know whether you're going to the weight room, the machines, or a class. Know how you want to work out and for how long. The more you have planned, the less scary it is to walk through the doors. There are fewer unknowns. Make a plan, gather your things, and walk in with determination and confidence.
Don't let the gym be a scary place. It's intimidating for everyone the first time, but it gets easier. Use these tips to make your first few visits a little easier, and before long you'll be feeling strong, confident, and ready to work every time you step foot inside.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in South Gate, Calif.