Scared to work out?

FitLink

You're definitely not alone in this, and I think the only way to really get past it is to just get out there and do it, and work on focusing on what you're doing, not what others might be thinking. Listen to music, or an audio book that helps to distract you.

After a while, you should get used to it.

I agree. The idea that confidence only comes when you've lost weight or think you look better bothers me. You should love and respect yourself at any size and no matter your appearance. It doesn't matter what anyone but YOU thinks about yourself.

skonly

There is no golden rule saying you have to join a gym. Take a walk. Workout at home.

I can't afford a gym membership. I have so many back problems I am limited to what I can do anyway other than walking.

I found out a few years ago that some of the local churches have gyms available for anyone to use at no charge. They are only open early in the morning. They may not have as much equipment but they do have bikes and rowers and weight benches. I was really surprised to learn this. A lot of older people go who aren't members of the church itself. Ask around and see if there is anything like that where you live. The community recreation center has a gym but it's expensive. They do have some classes for beginners, usually held in the evenings.

Don't worry about people looking at you. I am ocd about my gray roots showing, I could care less if someone thinks I'm fat and flabby but I went gray so early in life it really bothers me and I feel like everyone is staring. I know they aren't. I doubt people are gathering around water coolers to discuss the way we look. lol.

bathsheba_c

Maybe you can take a class? I go to the gym, but it's to learn self-defense. I'm still burning a goodly amount of calories, but I'm having fun and not paying attention to what others think. Also, I'm pretty sure zumba is mostly for people who want to lose weight, so you'd have company.

Good luck! :drinker:

da1128

I agree with everyone else....work out at home if you feel uncomfortable working out in public, but keep this in mind: the people at the gym are there for the same reasons you are. Sure, you might meet a few "Barbie Dolls," but talk to them. You might be surprised to learn they started off the same way you did!

I did drop my gym membership because the yearly cost was going through the roof. I bought myself a treadmill, along with some inexpensive free weights, bands, etc. However, I was a regular at the gym for several years, and I can assure you...people of all ages, shapes, and sizes were right there working out with me and the only attention anyone got was that of encouragement and support. We were all there working toward the same goal.

I specifically recall one gentleman who was extremely obese when he started coming to the gym, but wow, was he dedicated! I literally watched him shrink month after month and within a year, he had a bod like "Magic Mike!" He's still going to the gym, but now he is there as a personal trainer and is the nicest, most understanding man you'd ever want to meet, and he is only one of many.

Hellbent_Heidi

I specifically recall one gentleman who was extremely obese when he started coming to the gym, but wow, was he dedicated! I literally watched him shrink month after month and within a year, he had a bod like "Magic Mike!" He's still going to the gym, but now he is there as a personal trainer and is the nicest, most understanding man you'd ever want to meet, and he is only one of many.

What a fantastic story! I always wanted to be able to watch someone go through a huge transformation like that in real life (not just on Biggest Loser).

mlegosz

Here are my thoughts on this issue:

1) Whenever I see somebody who is overweight or unfit exercising, I think to myself "good on you, congrats for deciding to improve yourself".
2) You can do some great workouts at home:
a) Check out the beginners workout on Nerd Fitness to get started.
b) Look at sworkit.com, or their mobile site m.sworkit.com - they have some easy do it at home exercises to get you in shape.
c) Body weight exercises are fantastic.
3) If you want to run but are still self conscious, run when its dark.
4) Buy yourself some nice workout clothes that you feel comfortable in. I actually enjoy trying out my new shirts & shorts.
5) Find a class. Safety in numbers! Places like Wag Jag and Groupon are great places to look for deals - they bring in lots of beginners and you get a bargain at the same time!
6) Finally if all else fails, and drive to the next town where nobody knows you and go for it!

All the best to everyone on MFP! Keep up the good work!

alisiaendris

I enjoy working out at home. I really do not like the thought of people being around when I make funny faces or drip sweat. On the other hand, I have a rowing machine, an eliptical machine, an ab lounge, free weights, tension bands, a punching bag, and a WII. Therefore, it is just as easy to work out here...