Gym anxiety: why you should overcome it and how to do it

For some people, September is like January. The end of the summer holidays and the start of the new season can mean many new beginnings for those looking to make a change. One objective that many have in mind is eating healthier and exercising more. 

However, many people suffer from gym anxiety. Research from global lingerie retailer Hunkemoller polled 2,000 adults in the UK and found that over a quarter of women feel anxious in the gym, while 16% of men said they felt intimidated by public workout spaces, even if that is the best gym in Sydney.

Photo by Benjamin Klaver on Unsplash

What are the reasons for gym anxiety?

There are various reasons for feeling anxious in the gym, and the reasons for gym anxiety vary for men and women. For women, the standout reasons include a lack of knowledge around form and workout exercises, a general sense of feeling uncomfortable, and feeling like they're being looked at by other gym-goers. On the other hand, the main reasons that men said they felt nervous were feeling generally uncomfortable in gym surroundings, feeling intimidated by equipment, and not knowing how to check their form while exercising.

How to beat gym anxiety?

While gym anxiety is common for many gym-goers, it is still possible to beat these nervous feelings. Here are some tips on how to beat gym anxiety:

Join a class

Realising you're not the only one dealing with gym anxiety is an essential first step toward combatting it. Going to the gym with a friend or joining a class and doing your workout in a group can not only help you relieve your nerves but will help you find a support network of like-minded gym-goers, as well.

Ask a PT for help

It's likely your gym will have a large number of personal trainers on hand to help you by showing you how the equipment works or even planning your workout with you. Many of these trainers might also offer their programmes at a small extra cost and their personalised regimes can help you not only get more from your workout but can help you reach your own fitness goals. By just asking for a helping hand, you can quickly reduce your gym anxiety.

Bring your music

Another great way to alleviate feeling nervous in a gym environment is by bringing your music. Creating a great workout playlist of songs can help you get out of your head and focus your attention back on your workout.

Don't compare yourself

If you feel like people are looking at you while you're working out, try reassuring yourself that most people are more concerned with what they're doing than watching you. And the same goes for comparing yourself with other gym-goers! Teaching your mind to focus on your personal goals and your fitness journey can help you feel motivated and inspired, and remind yourself just why you showed up at the gym in the first place.

Do your research before you go

A simple way to relieve some workout anxiety is by getting yourself clued up before. Putting together a workout plan, checking your form online for popular exercises, or deciding on which area you want to focus on that day can help you leave the gym feeling accomplished - as well as reduce any anxieties about how you should be using your own gym session. 

The next time you feel anxious before going to the gym, try the following tips on relieving gym anxiety and making sure you feel empowered in your own workout space every single time.