5 Ways to Conquer Gym Intimidation

From Samantha Lazaris @SamLaz12, Program Intern

Whether it is your first time to the gym or your hundredth time, hopping on a new piece of equipment can be quite an intimidating experience. But have no fear, that’s where I come in! Getting comfortable in a gym may definitely have challenges, but I am here to give you the solid foundation for a smooth and stress-free workout.

Here are 5 tips that will demolish that fear of walking into a gym!

Tip #1: GET A TOUR!!

You are not alone!! There are tons of fitness specialists willing to help you on your journey to a healthier you. First recommendation when starting a new program is to simply ask the front desk to give you an intro to the facility and equipment. This will allow you to get familiar with the equipment without having to worry about any embarrassment or injury. This is also a great way to meet a potential personal trainer for the long run! 

Tip #2: Focus On Yourself, Not Those Around You!

Remember to NEVER be intimidated by “the regulars” because they were once in the same place as you!! (a newbie to the gym!)

Also, never compare yourself to other people! Although this is easier said and done, the thing that helps me the most is to stay focused on my own personal improvement and goals! AKA: Get in “THE ZONE”! Worrying about other people while working out will only slow you down, so just smile and stay focused on you! 

Tip #3: Start Small, Progress Big

Typically when walking into a new facility, we are overwhelmed and 1 of 3 things happen…

1) We make a run for it straight back to our car without ever looking back again.

2) We do too much and end up losing interest.

3) We get into a habit of doing the same 2 machines every single workout

To avoid any of these from occurring, start off with a simple cardio routine with maybe 1 or 2 days of strength and progress up! Switch up your cardio between treadmill, elliptical, bike (or my favorite) the Arc Trainer and separate your strength days into upper and lower body! Here I have included a sample progressive workout plan!

	Mon	Tues	Wed	Thurs	Fri
Cardio	45 min (Treadmill)	30 min (Arc Trainer)	45 min (Eliptical and Bike)	30 min (Eliptical)	45 min (Treadmill and Bike)
Strength	Stretch	20 min (upper)	Strech	20 min (lower)	Stretch

 Tip #4: Try and LOVE Group Fitness!

Group fitness is an absolutely amazing way to become comfortable in a gym while also allowing you to be in a more private area to workout in! No rhythm or coordination? No problem! Group Fitness often offers a huge variety of classes ranging from ab/core toning to classic boot camp.  You won’t know unless you try. Rule of Thumb: Try group fitness for a least 3 classes before making your final decision. I promise you will be hooked! 

Tip #5: Workout Clothes Guarantee!

                I will lay it all out on the table right now and guarantee that with a new workout outfit, you will not only feel more confident walking into the gym; you will also be more apt to actually go! On a budget? Don’t worry! TJ Maxx/ Marshalls has a HUGE selection of designer workout clothes for a great price. Use new clothes or athletic shoes as a new incentive for accomplishing a goal!

The Gym Fear: Taking the First Step

I recently joined a new gym and even though I have been a member of many different gyms throughout my life, I have to admit that I was nervous when walking through the doors for the first time. At Hilton Head Health we have Guests from all fitness levels; some actually work in the health field and just want to be re-invigorated and others who are being introduced to fitness for the first time. I would like to encourage everyone to take that first step and to not let your fear of feeling like an outsider keep you from making your health a priority—to join and actually visit a gym that's right for you. It can be intimidating joining a new gym—figuring out their equipment and getting accustomed to their fitness instructors.

Here are a few tips to help you take that first step in finding a gym that's right for you:

• First, choose a gym that works with your schedule. 24 hour gyms are popping up everywhere so if you have a hectic schedule, this might be right for you. Also, ask for a group fitness class schedule before deciding to join. Pick a gym that offers classes at times that work for you. Remember, don't be afraid to try something new!


• Once you've joined, ask for a tour of the facility so you feel comfortable in the new environment. Many gyms offer a free initial consultation, during which an instructor will show you how to use each machine and help you come up with a fitness routine.


• If you are interested in getting a trainer at this gym, do your research. Here's a post on what to look for in a good trainer.

This post was inspired by an article I read on one man's journey to losing 175 pounds after being scared into changing his lifestyle. His story is quite inspirational and I encourage you to read the article here. No matter what your obstacle, don't let your fear of failure keep you from success.