Your first time?

DanaDark

So, to start, I am INCREDIBLY self conscious... I am the type that is always screaming "OH GOD THEY'RE ALL LOOKING AT ME" where ever I go. Tripping while walking tends to make me consider throwing myself in traffic. lol.

Anyway, there are some gym lifts I want to start doing, namely squats and deadlifts. However, I keep horrifying myself out about it.

I have seen videos, gone to websites with handy gif images showing how to do them, where to place feet, grip, etc. but I still get that terrible feeling of "Oh god, they're all gonna look at me and think 'look at the scrawny guy try ha ha' "....

So, was wondering, any one, guy or gal, out there sometimes feel the same way... know a great exercise but have felt nervous about actually doing it?

Or am I a freak? I am cool being a freak and all... just wunna know.

VelociMama

I was 200 lbs and 5'8" (BMI of about 30) the first time I went to go lift at my gym and pathetically weak with atrocious form. All the people at my gym were all ripped and fit looking. It was really intimidating, but you have to remember that you have every right to be there also. You paid your dues just like they did. If they have a problem with you, that's their problem, not yours.

Just suck it up and go. Bring some music and focus on your workout.

Arthemise1

The best thing to do when you make a mistake like tripping is laugh at yourself. That way anyone is laughing with you, right?

I'm not much for gyms, but this fat girl does go jogging. No one's been unpleasant to me, and really, I doubt anyone cares. Anyone who judges a person for being human -- that says something about them, not you.

That said, I take things very personally, and my husband has to keep reminding me to take my own advice. Strength in numbers. Do you have a friend at the gym that can help you out?

DanaDark

The best thing to do when you make a mistake like tripping is laugh at yourself. That way anyone is laughing with you, right?

I'm not much for gyms, but this fat girl does go jogging. No one's been unpleasant to me, and really, I doubt anyone cares. Anyone who judges a person for being human -- that says something about them, not you.

That said, I take things very personally, and my husband has to keep reminding me to take my own advice. Strength in numbers. Do you have a friend at the gym that can help you out?

No gym buddies at all. Because of this, I try to ensure ALL of my exercises I do are safe to do alone without a spotter.

bizco

Oh honey, you're not a freak. Just remember that everyone had a first time.

Instead of thinking "ha ha look at that skinny guy..." I bet most people are thinking "Look at that brave, hard-working guy. He's in the gym trying to change his body. Way to go buddy!"

Please don't worry about what others might be thinking. Because first, you're probably wrong; they're thinking the statement above. Second, it will prevent you from reaching your goals. Third, those rare people who might be thinking something negative are mean and no one likes haters.

Just go for it! Stick with it for at least 6 months and the changes you see in your body will be amazing! Wishing you all the best!