Going to the gym can be a daunting experience for many people – whether it’s because you are new to the fitness world and lack experience, or you feel self-conscious. However, building up confidence in the gym is beneficial for achieving your fitness goals. If you’re someone who lacks confidence, don’t worry, as you’re not alone.
Fortunately, there are ways you can build your self-esteem and feel more comfortable in the gym environment. Our fitness gurus at our Slough gym, Bracknell gym and Langley gym have put together their tips on how to feel more confident.
1. SET REALISTIC GOALS
Setting goals that are achievable is the first step towards building confidence in the gym. Having a clear goal in mind gives you direction and purpose for your workouts. Your goal could be anything from losing weight or building muscle, to just improving overall fitness. Setting realistic goals helps you to track your progress and provides motivation to continue.
2. DRESS COMFORTABLY
Wearing comfortable clothing can make a big difference in how confident you feel in the gym. When you are at ease in what you are wearing, you can focus on your workout instead of worrying about your clothes. We recommend wearing breathable and stretchy fabrics that allow you to move freely. Also, it’s a good idea to invest in a good pair of trainers that provide support and comfort.
3. PLAN YOUR WORKOUTS
Once you have set your goals, the next step is to make a plan for how you will achieve them. Planning your workouts in advance helps you to stay organised, focused and committed. Not only will you have a clear idea of what exercises you’ll be doing, but you’ll also be less likely to feel overwhelmed or unsure of what to do next. You can create a workout plan that suits your fitness level, preferences, and schedule to ensure you will make progress towards your goals, which can boost your confidence.
4. START SLOWLY
When you are new to the gym, it can be tempting to jump straight into intense workouts. However, starting slowly is important to avoid injuries and build up your confidence. Our Slough, Bracknell and Langley gyms advise starting with low-intensity workouts and gradually increasing the intensity and duration. This way, you can build up your fitness level and confidence over time.
5. USE A PERSONAL TRAINER
If you’re new to the gym or feeling unsure about your workouts, working with a personal trainer can be a great way to build confidence. A personal trainer can create a customised workout plan based on your goals and fitness level, as well as provide guidance and support during your workouts. Additionally, they can assist you with learning proper form and technique, which can help you avoid injury and feel more confident in your abilities. Our trainers will work with you and tailor a programme to help you achieve your fitness goals.
6. FOCUS ON YOURSELF
One of the most common reasons people lack confidence in the gym is because they feel like they are being watched or judged. The truth is most people will be focused on their own workouts and pay little attention to others. It’s important to remember that everyone starts somewhere, and the only person you should be comparing yourself to is yourself. Instead of worrying about what others think, focus on yourself and your goals. Remember, you are there to improve your fitness, not to impress others. For women who would prefer to work out in female gyms, we have ladies only areas in our Bracknell and Slough gyms.
7. CELEBRATE YOUR PROGRESS
Celebrate your progress, no matter how small it may seem. Acknowledge your achievements and use them as motivation to keep going. Track your progress by taking measurements or photos to see how far you’ve come. This will boost your confidence and help you stay on track.
8. BRING A WORKOUT BUDDY
Working out with a friend can be a great way to build confidence in the gym. Not only will you have someone to talk to and encourage you, but you’ll also feel less self-conscious when you have someone by your side. Plus, having a workout buddy can make your gym sessions more enjoyable and motivating.
9. TRY NEW THINGS
It’s easy to fall into a routine when it comes to your workouts, but trying new things can help you build confidence and stay motivated. Whether it’s using a different piece of equipment, taking part in one of our fitness classes or making use of the indoor sports arena and 5-a-side football pitches at our Langley gym, mixing things up can help you stay engaged and excited about your workouts.
10. UTILISE OUR COMMUNITY
We have our own app which provides you with a lot of information, such as nutritional advice, online workouts and fitness class schedules. In addition, there is a very active community who chat and support each other – and are always there to give you a boost.
Being confident in the gym takes time and effort, but it is worth it to achieve your objectives. Remember, with patience and dedication, you can reach your fitness goals. To help you feel at ease, we are happy to give you a tour of our Slough gym, Bracknell gym or Langley gym. Just click Book a Tour.
