Overcoming gym fear ... Top tip: Realise everyone is gym weird!

Before reading this blog ... please, please, please watch this!!

My clients often say to me that they are nervous about going to the gym. I get it ... Going to the gym was always so far out of my comfort zone.

Do I sweat to much? Am I using this machine right? Have I been on this for too long? OMG did my ex just walk in?

Things have changed for me on that score. Now I'm more child in a sweet shop rather than the socially awkward person hiding in the corner.

So how do you turn that feeling of anxiety into excitement. Here's my top eight tips.

TOP TIP: Realise everyone is gym weird
Regardless of your quirk, chances are there is going to be someone in the gym who is going to be equally if not more gym weird. And, even if you are the oddest in the room, no-one will notice. People tend to be so self occupied with their workout and how they look in the mirror that they aren't or shouldn't be concerned with what you are doing.

Tip 2: Ask for an induction
Most gyms insist on you doing an induction before you start. I recommend taking them up on it. Firstly, for safety reasons. Secondly, as well as having a PT to yourself giving you tips for FREE, you will know what to expect from each item of kit and how to use them without feeling silly.

Tip 3: Make yourself known to the PT's 
This doesn't need to be a formal handshake. Just a smile and a nod will do. PT's may turn into sadists during a workout, but most if not all PT's that I have ever met, genuinely just want to help people. In my experience, if you are out of your depth, a PT will often come over and offer their advice. If you are uncomfortable with it, just say no and You Tube it when you get home :)

Tip 4: Quiet times 
If you are really nervous, attend the gym at quieter times. January/February doesn't always give the best impression of a gym, because it is always busy, however I find you are usually safe first thing in the morning or an hour or so before close.

Tip 5: Join a class
This is a great way to pick up some tips. There's nothing like pulling out a unique gym move to make you look and feel like a pro to your new gym friends - not that anyone is looking ;) Classes are also a great way to mix up your routine, gauge progress and to meet new people. It's amazing how simply recognising someone's face can make you feel at home.

Tip 6: Wear something that you are comfortable in
Obviously something functional is always a good shout, however if you are self-conscious about your body it goes beyond that. Wear something that you feel good in - your favourite colour perhaps. This will be very unique to you and you may be surprised to know it doesn't need to cost the earth. Primark, Tesco and various other supermarkets do amazing clothing ranges. It will make a lot of difference though. It will make seeing yourself in the mirror a lot easier if you are admiring how stylish you look in your new T.

Tip 7: Sign up for a buddy
Some gyms offer a buddy system, or alternatively you can sign up for programmes such as The Wolf Pack, where they can team you up with a more seasoned gym goer who can show you the ropes. Failing that a PT works equally as well and will help you to become more integrated ... even if it's just till you find your feet.

Tip 8: Be kind to yourself
Be conscious of what you say to yourself. Would you ever say the following to someone else:

1. Fuck, you look fat (sorry Mum for swearing)
2. OMG your face is disgusting without makeup
3. Jesus, you look like an idiot
4. You are so pathetic 

Hopefully you get my point! You wouldn't. You would never be that mean to someone. Do not be that mean to yourself. You may not even notice you are doing it but if you do, it can be causing unnecessary stress which in turn can limit your weight loss.

The gym should be about making yourself look and feel better. Don't let it be an excuse to beat yourself up.

Taking the first step

Remember going to the gym can be the first and hardest step. You are amazing for just trying! Every time you face your fear you are building yourself up a little bit more and just incase you aren't ready to say this to yourself I am majorly proud of you!

Please let me know how you get on! 

Good luck and just shout if you'd like to find out more about the Wolf Pack buddy system or any other topic mentioned in this blog - join@the-wolf-pack.co.uk

Also, to help you find your feet, I am offering free one-to-one training with either myself of one of my fellow wolfies on buy one get one free.

What are you waiting for - sign up here.

Love,
Stacey
xx