It is not uncommon for women to have the urge to join a gym but to not do so due to their lack of confidence in a gym setting. Don’t let this be you! We at NW Women’s Fitness have compiled a list of tips to help you become more confident and get you breaking a sweat at the gym
1. Dress the part:
Everyone knows the better you look the better you feel, so why not wear something that makes you feel proud and confident to be in your skin at the gym. Perhaps a new pair of sneakers or that cute workout outfit you have stowed away for a rainy day could do the trick.
2. Be prepared:
Walk in the gym with confidence and know what you are going to do. What machine will you use first and where will you put your things? Have a plan before you walk into the gym to help boost your confidence and make it easier to ignore any intimidation you may be holding on to
3. Timing is everything:
Going to the gym during its busiest hours can intimidate anyone, especially someone who is intimidated as is. If you’re feeling insecure about a move you’ve been wanting to try or a new machine you’ve been wanting to use, why not go at a time when not many people are there? Gyms are usually busiest on the weekdays between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
4. Bring a Friend:
Nothing can help you be more secure with yourself than having a buddy by your side, assuring you what you’re doing is fine. Having a friend accompany you at the gym can not only help you feel more confident and secure with your surroundings, but they can be helpful with making sure you have the right form and maybe even allow for some healthy competition between the two of you.
5. Give advance warning:
Going to a new workout class you’ve never attended before? Don’t wait for the instructor to ask if there is anyone new to pipe up; instead, why not show up 5 minutes early and tell the instructor then. This will give you time to talk to the instructor and understand what the class is all about, as well as a chance for the instructor to get a feel for you and understand what you are looking to get out of the class.
I can definitely agree that it is important to dress the part when you go to the gym. I once tried to wear jeans when I went to the gym and I really felt out of place. Now, I only wear shorts and tank tops and I feel better when I exercise and like I fit in as well.
I like that you point out that the better you dress the better you feel. I can see why this would also apply to dressing for the gym. I invite my wife to go to the gym with me every time I go. She always comes up with some reason not to go. I’m not sure if she’s just nervous or what, but I’ll have to go out and buy her some proper clothing so she can feel confident when she does finally go.
We all have the moment when we feel a bit awkward going to the gym, My best advice would be not to dress good but to believe in yourself first, Everybody start somewhere and if you can prepare your minf your body will follow. Don’t overthink what others will think. Just do it and you will see the difference in some days.