CONFESSIONS OF A GYM-PHOBIC INTROVERT
The gym is more than just confusing machines, judgmental mirrors, and an unexpected soundtrack of grunts.
Are my leggings too tight? Am I lifting these weights correctly? Do I look dumb using the leg press machine?
These thoughts run through my head whenever I work out at the gym. There’s always this crippling fear of being judged by the gym bros and the other regulars.
Before I signed up for a membership, I had this preconceived idea of what a gym environment was like. I’m picturing Nico Bolzico clones doing pull-ups, Pilates princesses doing crunches, and just generally fit people all knowing each other and sharing high-fives.
This impression had subconsciously hindered me from working out in such a public space. I’ve kept my fitness journey to myself and in the safety of my home.
The YouTube channels “Yoga with Adriene” and “Blogilates” were my go-to’s when choosing a fitness routine. Both channels had monthly calendars that laid out specific videos you could follow every day.
During the pandemic, they were such a great help. However, as I wove myself back into society, I made a goal to meet new people. I work from home permanently, so I have the choice to not leave the house for a week if I want to. But that wouldn’t help my goals at all.
The gym felt like a great place to mingle. It’s not the first choice for socialization for everyone since gym memberships do come at a price. But when my dad signed both of us up for a trial run, I thought I could hit two birds with one stone. Fitness goals: Check! Make new friends: Check!
However, to actually accomplish these goals, I had to overcome my gym fears. I needed to set aside my worries about not feeling fit enough, social anxiety, and the lack of knowledge about workout equipment.
On the other side of the coin, by letting these fears take over, I’d be depriving myself of access to high-quality gym equipment, an encouraging community, and an opportunity to be my best self.
For me, reframing the mindset is one of the first ways to get over a fear. In other words, I had to gaslight myself. Everybody has probably had a first day at the gym. I just needed to take some time to figure out the gym environment and accept that I’m a beginner. People don’t come out of the womb gym-ready.
So, repeat until true: “You got this. Small steps lead to big changes. It’s okay to start slow. Progress at your own pace.”
GYMTIMIDATION COPING STRATEGIES
Confidence is pivotal in the gym environment, where physical appearances take center stage. Stepping into the gym with low self-esteem can feel like entering a battle without any armor. You’ll feel like all eyes are on you, criticizing every move you make.
So, to manage your anxiety, you have to think of strategies that can boost your confidence. Wear something comfortable
and confidence-boosting. Most of my confidence is rooted in what I’m wearing. I’ve noticed that my clothes shape how I feel about myself. If my shorts feel off, I constantly think about how my lower body looks.
But put me in a cute matching set that shows off my best features, and I’m strolling through the gym like I own the place. It’s more than just clothes — it’s like my secret weapon for feeling great.
Use pre-planned workout routines. Put your TikTok doomscrolling to good use by saving quick workout routines you can use in the gym. As a beginner, I like searching for workout routines with schedules to have something pre-planned for every day of the week.
Some creators even guide me on how to use certain machines so that I’m more familiar with them once I use them in person. By having a guide beforehand, you’ll have something to focus on during your session, distracting you from thinking anybody is watching you.
Try to avoid peak hours. The usual gym peak hours are when people get off work, which is 4-7 p.m. During this time, finding a vacant treadmill or getting your preferred dumbbell weight will be hard.
Early mornings or late nights are usually a good time to visit the gym. You can also check if there are any class schedules available. If there’s an ongoing class, it’s more likely to have more people in.
Find a gym buddy. For an introvert like myself, starting a conversation with a stranger takes great courage. One way to take the first step is to join a class. Whether that’s yoga, cardio dance, or Zumba, there’s a sense of community once class starts.
You can share a laugh with your classmates once the exercise gets tough. It’s the perfect environment to start a conversation; use a few icebreakers like, “That was a hard one, wasn’t it?” or “Where did you buy your yoga mat?” After a few of these, you’ll surely get an acquaintance to call your gym buddy.
Remind yourself why you’re here. You signed up for the gym with a purpose. Be your own hype person, and don’t lose sight of your goals. I know it’s hard not to selfcriticize when a girl like Kendall Jenner is doing push-ups next to you. You just can’t help but hate your body a little bit. In those moments, it’s important to remember that you’re here for you and nobody else.
Going back, why do you want to be physically fit? Is it because you want to be strong or maintain a healthy weight? Whatever it is, the gym is a place where you need to focus on yourself. It helps to have a purpose when you step inside. So prepare your routine and don’t be afraid to ask for help, whether from a fellow gym goer or an attendant. You’ll be surprised at how kind the gym community can be!