Gyms are Intimidating

PB67

To add to the above. Many people who are afraid to go to the gym have the belief that they will be ridiculed because they don't know what they're doing.

Spend some time in commercial gyms and you will see that 90% of the people working out don't know what they're doing either (including many of the so-called "trainers").

ABetterBalance

So, I have a membership to an awesome fitness center since I'm a student. However, I have this extreme... fear (?) of gyms. I always get extremely uncomfortable and just do not want to be there. I feel like people are staring at me and mentally making snide comments. I have a very paranoid personality.
I've only ever felt comfortable a few times. That was during Zumba with my best friend at our local gym. However, I can't go there anymore. So I'm very much so trying to put off going to the gym, but I know I need to.

Is there any rational way to get over this and just get excited to go?
And also, I'm a bit unsure as what to even do in a gym. I'll be honest. I've only ever done a class. I feel like I wouldn't even know where to start.

Thanks.

I'm sorry you are feeling that way. Feeling intimidated is hard to overcome for many people.

Have you asked for an orientation, specifically one for the machines and weight room? Most gyms (that I know of) will offer this- to help you get set up AND to make sure you know how to use the equipment properly (for your safety and to keep the equipment from being damaged!)

Also, you can try looking for a less crowded time to go, or maybe bringing a friend with you?

ArroganceInStep

The stuff most folks have been saying is true. People are generally much more concerned with their own workouts than what you may be doing. There are people at gyms that might stare or what not, but I don't think it's tremendously more common than folks you might run into on the street somewhere.

As for your own discomfort, start small. Go for small workout sessions that you can stomach doing. Do classes or whatever that you can convince yourself to get up and do. Work your way towards longer workouts, and using equipment you're not so comfortable with now.

Good luck