Getting into the gym for some people requires a huge boost of self confidence. It can be a nerve racking thing if you’re just starting to go to the gym or haven’t been in a while. You feel like people are judging you or that you’re doing an exercise wrong. You need to put all of that behind you. When you step into that gym remember that everyone is there for the same reason- to get healthier, stay in shape and burn some calories. Here are some tips on how to build your self confidence before you even step foot in the gym!
Tip 1- Figure out what your goals are going to be once you get into the gym. Do you want to weight train? Do you just want to use cardio equipment? Do you want to do a class? Once you figure this out we can move on to the next tip.
Tip 2- So you’ve decided you want to weight train but have no clue where to start. I recommend Bodybuilding.com Plan Finder this will help you design a program that fits your goals! They also have amazing instructional videos on how to do just about every exercise out there. This is a great tool whether you’re a beginner or advanced! I use it when I’m looking for some new routines or if someone asks for my help on building a routine.
Tip 3- If you’re afraid of doing exercises wrong, practice at home first without weights (this in itself could be a workout). Pull up Bodybuilding.com, find your routine, and click on each exercise so you can see the video and practice in the mirror to see if you’re doing it correct. This should help you build up the confidence to go to the gym and add some weights!
Tip 4- If you’ve recently joined a gym, most gyms offer one free personal training session. This is a great resource because you can utilize their time and ask questions about different exercises you want to accomplish that you’re unsure if you’re doing correctly. You may also find out that you like that trainer and may want to continue with them.
Tip 5- Group classes- sometimes it’s nice to just go to a gym for a class because you know you won’t be the only person there (even if it’s you and the instructor- you’re not alone!). This can help you get more confident just getting into the gym and maybe eventually stepping out of the class and going into the weights section or going on the treadmill.
Tip 6- Find a partner, someone who is already going to the gym or another newbie like yourself. There are upsides to both! The person who already goes to the gym can help show you around and the other newbie and yourself can make each other feel more confident because you’re both there!
Good luck! Let me know what you found helped the most for you! You can do it!