Overcoming the anxiety of attending a gym – which is common for many
With fitness trainer Graham Low
Gym anxiety is very common and can affect anyone – especially if you're just getting started or haven't exercised for a while.
The anxiety and the fear you feel about going to a gym/ fitness class can be enough to put you off getting started, for weeks ... months .... or even years sometimes!
Maybe you’re afraid of what other people will think of your appearance or abilities. Maybe you have no idea what to do or how to use the equipment, and you feel like people will judge you.
Maybe you’re concerned that it will be too crowded, or the machines you normally use will be taken. Or maybe you feel uneasy in the changing rooms next to strangers.
If you’ve ever felt this way, know that you’re definitely not alone. Most people feel nervous about starting a new fitness regime.
The key is to find something that suits your current fitness levels.
Just like Janice, from Seaham, who started our beginner classes last week and left this comment on one of our Facebook posts after her first session ...
“I went to the beginner class for the first time last night, not going to lie I was pretty nervous, but I didn’t need to be I was made most welcome and I managed to keep up. Cannot recommend this enough and I cannot wait until next week.”
Janice had been thinking about starting for a while before she plucked up the courage to get started.
But, as she wrote in her comment, there was no need to worry. She really enjoyed the class and said she "Can’t wait until next week"!
That's some turnaround! Before the classes she was feeling nervous, anxious, even fearful ... but 45 minutes later she was buzzing. Energised from the workout, proud of herself for making the first step, and excited for the next one.
At East Coast Fitness, we know that gym anxiety exists and we do everything we can to make people feel welcome and comfortable from the first minute. We have options to suit all abilities and we allow you to work at your own pace.
If you've been wanting to do some exercise but gym anxiety has been holding you back, then you’re very welcome to come and try some classes at East Coast Fitness
For more info go to www. eastcoast-fitness.com or email graham@eastcoast-fitness. com
ALTERNATIVES
Just thinking about going to the gym can make your heart race, but not in anticipation of the workout ahead. Instead, it may be feelings of stress and anxiety holding you back.
If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re not the only one. Prepandemic, gym anxiety was common, but now many have returned to gyms after the extended shutdown, but people still have some uncertainty and stress related to making this return.
Even though these feelings may be common, they don’t have to keep you from starting or continuing your workout routine. Whether you’re just starting to workout, are returning to a gym, or you feel this way each time you go, you can overcome these feelings and stick to a sustainable fitness plan.
Gym anxiety refers to worry, fear, and stress related to visiting a gym. However, exercise is an effective way to reduce anxiety.
People may be anxious that others will judge them negatively when they work out.
They may also feel anxious before they use a gym for the first time because they are unsure of what to expect.
A person can overcome their gym anxiety by researching the gym before going, visiting the gym with a friend, working with a personal trainer, and trying group exercise classes.
If an individual cannot overcome their anxiety, they can try alternatives, such as running, walking, cycling, or group classes outside of the gym.