Living with any form of anxiety is rough. It can paralyze you and stop you from doing the things you want and/or need to do, and that can make you feel even worse in turn. And when it comes to hitting the gym on a regular basis, you can be incredibly intimidated by the idea of working out in this kind of environment. If you need a little more help to get over the anxiety of working out, read on to get some tips to deal with anxiety at the gym.
Your mind is very powerful and can propel you forward or stop you in your tracks. If you are anxious, you may imagine yourself surrounded by fitness pros who will be looking at you, judging you, and even laughing at you for the way you train. However, it’s extremely unlikely for such a situation to occur. Most people who go to the gym are busy working on themselves, not staring at others. Plus, gyms can be supportive places!
Develop a Plan Ahead of Time
If you have workout anxiety, the first thing you need to do is have a plan before you get to the gym. Figure out what areas you want to work on. Do you want to build core strength or flatten your tummy? Do you want to have stronger arms or leaner legs? Do you want to use the cardio machines before or after working out?
Decide ahead of time, so you can spend less time worrying about what to try next when you get there. In this way, you don’t feel like a deer in headlights. You become efficient. You hit what you need to hit and have an effective workout as a result.
Go During the Quiet Hours
Just like any other business, gyms have busy and quiet times. Gyms are more packed in the early morning hours, at lunchtime, and after work during the week. The weekends are generally busier all throughout the morning. If there’s a 24-hour gym near you, it’ll probably be quiet from 10 pm until about 6 in the morning. So it’s best to avoid those times.
During quiet hours, the gym has fewer people around. That just might be the one thing you need to commit to a regular fitness routine. Not only does this mean you’ll have fewer people to exercise around, but you get the chance to try out equipment that would otherwise be in use.
Work with a Fitness Pro
Another tip to deal with anxiety at the gym is to work with a fitness professional. Having an expert on hand will help you to learn proper form and to avoid injuries. Besides, he/she can guide you through a workout and you’re going to feel less self-conscious about the movements you perform.
Someone who knows exactly what they’re doing, and is there to talk you through each piece of equipment and how to use it, will really help you to feel in control when you’re down the gym. So, look up a Fitness Center Near Me and then book a consultation, or simply head down and inquire about coaching services at the desk.
Pack Headphones for a Distraction
Finally, why not simply block out the world by listening to your own music? Don’t let gym radio, the idle chatter around you, or your own internal dialogue hold you back. Put your headphones in and exercise to the beat of your own drum. Music can really help to center you and make you feel far less on your own when tackling a new circuit.
Anxiety is rarely helpful. Don’t let it stop you from living a healthy life. You can deal with anxiety naturally by taking a holistic approach. Besides addressing your mind and unhelpful thoughts, keeping your body active helps decrease your symptoms. When you follow the tips described above, you’ll be able to feel less anxious at the gym and achieve your goals.
To a Fitter Healthier You,
The Fitness Wellness Mentor
