Curtis Harwell and Kim Duke Discuss "How to Overcome Gym Anxiety"

So you’ve decided to go to the gym for the first time (or, OK, get back into a routine of working out). But the whole process has left you feeling…well…nervous!

“What if people laugh at me when I’m there?” “Ugh! I don’t know how to use all the equipment.” If any of these thoughts have crossed your mind you’re not alone. We’ve all felt insecure about going to the gym.

Here are 6 of the most common fears people have about the gym and easy ways I’ve found work to overcome them. I recommend putting these anxieties to bed once and for all. Why? Then you can spend time and energy focusing on what really matters: you becoming healthier!

I’m not sure if I’m ready to exercise.

If you haven’t exercised in a long while, have any known injuries, are overweight, it’s worth getting checked out by a doctor before starting a workout routine. He or she can advise you on how much you can push yourself or if you need to avoid certain types of exercises due to any existing injuries. They might also be able to suggest certain exercises that could help rehabilitate existing issues.

I have good intentions now but…

Before you head to the gym for the first time pinpoint your reason for going to the gym. I don’t mean something like “to be healthy” or “because I want to lose weight”, ask yourself “why do I want to be healthy?” or “why do I really want to lose weight ?” You need to be completely honest with yourself. Maybe you want to look better or feel better. Or maybe regular exercise will help you manage a chronic health condition. At the end of the day, no matter what your reason, the important part is that you have one.