Do you get intimidated when you go to the gym and see all these fit and gorgeous people working out? God knows I do. It turns out that it’s a common feeling; so common in fact that there is a term for it: gymtimidation.
Everyone now comes with the awareness that a sedentary lifestyle is terrible for your health. Most of us have joined a gym to beat the lethargy that comes with our desk jobs. I’ve also tried personal trainers, and while they are great and can customise workouts to exactly what you need, it can also get boring (not to mention expensive).
So how can you train yourself to focus on your workout instead of all the other people in the gym who seem to be way fitter than you?
1. Join a class
Instead of working out alone, which can make you self conscious, try out a class. You’d be surprised by how many people are just as clueless as you are. There will be other beginners along with you and you will immediately feel more comfortable.
After all, we are social animals, so a group class is a great way to meet new people and set new goals. Classes also come with the added benefit of having fixed timings so there’s no excuse for you to miss them. Unless there is an emergency, you will always know well in advance that you have a workout scheduled.
2. Wear proper workout clothes
Thankfully for us, most sportswear brands have managed to combine comfort with style so you don’t need to sacrifice the latter for the former. Just make sure that you make comfort your first priority.
Choose a sports bra that actually holds your breasts in place as you run and jump. Having your girls jiggle while doing jumping jacks is going to make you uncomfortable and will inhibit movement. Also, pick pants that allow for maximum stretch. Freedom of movement is the key for any workout.
3. Focus on yourself
Stop looking here and there when you’re working out. Focus on yourself and what you are doing. Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you are confused about anything. Don’t know how to use a certain machine? Ask. Need a little help lifting something? Ask for help. Slowly but surely, if you focus on yourself and seek guidance whenever you are in doubt, you will see a marked difference in how well your workouts are going.
So, forget gymtimidation and go out and kick some a**!
