photo credit: rich115

Many women avoid going to the gym because the are intimidated by all the massive bodybuilding males and all the super fit females in their designer workout gear. Other women avoid going to the gym because they are naturally shy people and the gym represents something very foreign. I can understand. I was once like you.

In this post I am going to give you a few simple techniques that you can use to not be intimidated at the gym. I am certain they will help you overcome your fear.

How to not be intimidated at the gym

Have a read through these techniques and take what works for you. If you find that something has a particularly good effect then keep it up. If something is not working then forget about it.

1. Realize that nobody cares
The biggest thing that I cam to realize some years ago is that people care a lot less than I think they do. People are not staring at your huge butt. People are not looking to see what brand sneakers you have on. People are not critiquing your workout.

The truth of the matter is that everyone there is as self conscious as you! When you are worrying about what THEY are thinking they are sitting there worrying about what YOU are thinking. So relax. Nobody cares.

2. Go with a friend
A great way to get over the initial gym fear is to go with a friend. If you workout together you will have the “safety in numbers” feeling and you will be a lot less intimidated by all experts walking around. In fact, people who workout with friends are often seen as the trend setters and other people will be more open to what you are doing.

3. Book a session with a trainer
Booking a session with a trainer is a fantastic way to learn the techniques and workouts that will get you fit and healthy. But it is also a great way to overcome that intimidation factor. Why? Because the trainers run those gyms. They are there everyday and they know the people and the machines inside out. In fact, they might even introduce you to some of the more intimidating people such that you will now become friendly with the people that you once feared.

4. Understand that the gym is a friendly place
Another important realization I had after spending a few weeks at the gym was that it was a very friendly place. The people there are mostly interested in improving their lives and getting healthy and fit and as such the place has a very positive vibe. This can differ from gym to gym (some gyms are more like pick-up venues as opposed to gyms) but for the most part they are warm and friendly places.

5. Participate in a class
Every gym has a set timetable of classes including yoga, pilates, pump, RPM spin classes, etc. It is a good idea to join in one of these classes as soon as you get to the gym as it puts you in a big group and gives you something to do. I have found that I am a lot less likely to be intimidated when I am focused on a class and following an instructor. In those classes everyone becomes a student – all are equal.

If anyone has any other tips please head over to the forum and let us know. And don’t forget to enter to win a free iPod!

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