Why You Shouldn’t be Intimitated by the Gym

In the 30+ consultations I’ve had with my adult clients, one common thread has emerged. I will always ask the same question: ‘what prompted you to decide to try personal trainer?’ and people respond back with a myriad of different reasons. One answer I almost always get is some version of ‘when I go a public gym I just don’t know what to do and it’s SOOOO intimidating.’ 

I am by no means writing this blog to promote my gym (quite the opposite actually), but rather would like to convey two specific reasons why the gym isn’t as intimidating as many people think. 

First, I promise that NO ONE is staring at you or judging you and thinking to themselves ‘that person clearly is new to gym’. Many ‘newbies’ get self-conscious that they don’t know what they’re doing. This pertains especially to the free-weights section of the gym. On the contrary, most people are so wrapped up in what they’re doing that they don’t pay you any attention. Others are just as new as you and they’re thinking the same thoughts you are. While it may feel to like you’re the center of attention, most of the people around you are paying attention to their next set and the 50 Cent that they just queued up. 

Second, the gym community has turned into one of the most welcoming environments in our society. I’m not saying you have to do this - but if you were to ask someone who you can tell is an experienced gym-goer for advice on an exercise, they’ll be THRILLED that they get to share their knowledge. If you tell the guy next to you on the bench that it’s your first week in the gym, that person is going to be PUMPED that you’re giving it a try. While the people around you at the gym may seem intimidating,  each and every one of them is happy you’re there working on yourself and your well-being.