Going to the gym can be a scary experience for people who have never been to one. The most intimidating thing about starting an exercise program is the fear of how you look to others. The first thing many people notice when they walk into a weight room or gym is people who are incredibly fit with cut and toned bodies. The last thing they want to do is to draw attention to themselves being the new person who is carrying a few extra pounds and has no clue as to what they are doing. The frustration can be overwhelming.
Intentional Or Not
Gym intimidation is often unintentional. The athletes that people first see when they walk into a gym are at their peak. It is important to remember that at some point in their lives, they had to take the first step. They didn’t always look muscle bound and healthy. They had to work at it. In some cases, they have been at it for several years. While these hard core athletes may work to intimidate their peers and competitors, they sincerely are not trying to intimidate those who are just starting on their fitness journey.
When a person takes the first step, it is understandable to be somewhat self-conscious in comparison to many of the more toned patrons. With each step a person takes and every milestone that is achieved, they will begin to feel better about themselves. By focusing on the health benefits of exercise and concentrating on increasing the amount of weight and the duration of the workout, the transformation of the body will follow. In some cases, the person may not even realize the changes until they look in the mirror one day and wonder who the person is staring back at them.
Ways to Avoid Gym Intimidation
There are many ways to avoid gym intimidation. First, it is important to remember how hard the other athletes have had to work to get where they are. Second, when a person goes to a gym, they should do so for themselves not anyone else. The goal is to improve their health and achieve personal satisfaction when it comes to their looks and physical build. While the first few months may lead to moments of self doubt or insecurity, focusing on one’s own goals is vital to their personal success.
A person who chooses to work out in a gym will commonly face many individuals who are in much better physical shape. That should not be perceived as intimidation. Instead, it should be looked at as something to strive for. When a person pushes themselves to succeed, they can accomplish anything they set their mind to. Improving their health is the main goal, but one of the main benefits is a more toned and physically fit body. Even if you don’t see immediate progress, don’t let the success of others deter you from your goal.