How to over feeling intimated and/or embarrassed at the gym?

MarvinsAMartian

Everyone's already offered up great advice.

Only thing I can add is if all else fails, ask. When I first started in the gym and didn't know what to do I just watched what other people did and if they looked approachable I'd ask them to show me how to do it. What I've found is that most people are not only willing, but are more than happy to help.

Good luck, I hope you don't get discouraged. The long term benefits of lifting far outweighs (pun) the short term anxiety of getting started.

CSARdiver

Don't be. You're entering into uncharted waters and it's just new to you now. Everyone in that gym started where you are now - remember that.

Talk to people there and listen to those more experienced in the beginning. Fact check on the internet or in these forums. Get to know people there and finds friends with similar goals to motivate each other.

The toughest part is going to the gym. Once you're there it's all just routine.

cogirljb

First off Stronglifts 5x5 is a great/easy program to follow!! I started by watching a ton of youtube videos to be sure I had form down properly. Then just get in there!!! Honestly, I've never had so many people talk to me at the gym until I started lifting. They have all been very nice and helpful!!!

henryjamessimm388

I used to hate going, just cause I always felt judged by everyone! I had a couple of pt sessions to get my form in check, and once you know you're solid on that, it's weird how much less intimidated I felt!

Also, most people there are so focused on their own workouts (or at least should be...) that although it may feel they're watching you constantly, they probably don't really care what you're doing...