I'm scared to go to the gym...?

Question

because I feel intimidated by the other people who go there, especially if they're fit... and I don't even know how to use weight equipment properly... what should I do?

Answer 1

Being overweight and older I was very intimidated by the gym scene. Initially I did so badly in the aerobic classes especially the step class where I can't exercise and think at the same time. When everyone is going left I am still struggling to go right. I tried kickboxing and could not follow the routine. Ended up feeling really out of place. But I did not give up regardless of how awkward I felt. So I started planning how I would handle this "problem". I decided that I would start off with the easiest machine and that is the bike. You can't go wrong with that. While "biking" I would observe my surrounding, making note of the different machines and how people operate them. Then after awhile I would push my comfort zone and graduate to other machines. Next on my list was the eliptical, hard to go wrong on that one too. Then as I got healthier, I braved myself to join the pilates/yoga class. Made some friends there and they encouraged me to try out other classes which I did. After awhile you learn that there are other people in your fitness range and you begin to feel more at home in the gym. Incidentally, those people that I meet in these classes are also ones that taught me how to use the weight machines. Asking a trainer is also an option and gyms normally give you one free session when you first join up. However, I chose not to ask a trainer because I wasn't comfortable or confident enough. Hope this helps and don't give up, conquering my fear and going to the gym was the best thing I could have done for both my emotional and physical well-being.

Answer 2

Go during off hours when there is likey less people. Usually with a membership the gym will show you the basics of the equipment. If not ask them to. And if you can't go during the slow times try to go with a friend who has knowledgeable about the equipment. If they're not a certified fitness professional just let them show you the basics and nothing else.

Answer 3

A lot of times when you first enroll in a gym they offer one free session with a personal trainer. (If you don't know if your gym does or not ask). You can have them walk you through what you should be doing everytime you go in and you'll get the hang out it. A lot of times if some of the gym employees see you doing an exercise wrong they'll come help you out. They don't want to see you get hurt. It also might help if you go with a friend. They can help you figure the equiptment out and help motivate you.

I just recently started going to the gym too and felt the same way. (I'm working with a personal trainer now.) But I look around the gym and realize that almost everyone else there doesn't know what they're doing either. Lots of people wander around with lost looks on their faces.

Answer 4

My mom went to Curves a ladies only gym and they have all types of women who work out at their gym. They, apparently show you how to use the equipment (as most gyms do your first time there)... I would look for a similar gym and ask questions before signing up.
I have a workout room at home, so do not go to one. When I did most gyms would let you try out their gym- so you can get a feel for it and how they operate. Request a trial day; check out the people and the employees to see if they fit with you and make you comfortable-do not let them pressure you into joining. I recommend a ladies only gym- because you don't have to worry about men staring at you.

Answer 5

If you want to go to the gym, go and get a "free" week and see if it's for you and don't you worry about anyone else. There are professional people there who will show you how to use everything. All you have to do is tell them you don't know how to use anything properly. You're going there for yourself, and yes, it will take some time to become accoustomed to the other people there, but just think about it for a minute. They had to work to get where they are too. Look at them as inspiration and don't be afraid to make friends with "fit" people. Just wear something comfy and go for it!!! You can try going at different times when the crowd is slow and get your courage up a little. I have to tell you, I'm impressed that you're considering this and I KNOW you can do it! So go for it!!! "Anything worth doing, is worth doing well." Godloveya.

Answer 6

First off... Have no fear, there are people there to help you! It couldnt be easier. First they will show you how to use the equipment if you have questions. Most pieces of hard to use equipment have directions right on them, and Dont feel intimidated.... those people that go there had to start somewhere. You arent being looked at because your not fit, Your being looked at because your the new kid on the block. Dont let fear hold you back when it comes to working out. Its VERY beneficial and everyone should do it.

Answer 7

Alot of good advice here for you! I can tell you that when people are new to the gym and fit people are there, they are glad you are there. 99% of the fit people there would help you too if you asked them, they weren't always fit either and they are very good with new people coming in. If you start talking with them there are many things you can learn from them, they're all looking and paying attention to what they're doing, remember this too! They may glance your way, but that s what it is a glance, then they're back to what they're doing.
In most places you will get a free session with a trainer, at the YMCA's the training is free to you, this would be good for you.

Answer 8

Your fear is understandable! Some of the ways to help might be to find a women's only gym, a personal trainer, a women's only exercise track like Curves aerobics classes through churches or YMCA.

If you can find comfortable ways to begin your journey you will very soon find the way you feel after working out will outweigh the self-consciousness that you once found overwhelming!!

Answer 9

Please don't be scared, I started going to the gym, of course there are extremely fit people but look around there are many who feel like yourself, as for the weights there are trained people to help you. once you make the first step you won't look back. good luck.

Answer 10

try walking around their track or using the free weights [like the 5 pounds hand weights]

do that until u are comfotable!!

i have the same problem, but i usually just go to the bike, and i keep remembering that it doesn't matter what they think i'll never see them again...