Loosening Up in the Gym- Ladies

I just do it, which is what you will have to do, too, if weights are something you want to do. it helps to know wtf you're doing. i started at home with a handful of plates and a cheap bar. I learned most of my form from my bf (but there's a wealth of proper form info on the interweb, too) and I do things right. So i'm pretty confident in what I'm doing. I didn't feel like a "beginner" when I started going to a gym. You can always practice form and lifts at home (even without weights!) so that you feel like you know what you're doing when you go there.

If you're informed and doing things right, no one is going to wonder what that chick is doing on the guy's side. As a matter of fact, the other day, a random bro looked at me after i did a set of deadlifts and said "You're the only person in this gym I've ever seen doing those right, and I've been coming here for over a year." I was elated.

Mainly, I pay attention to what I'm doing. Which is what the dudes should be doing, too. Unless they want to complement my form. lol

I'm glad that you've decided to add free weights to your routine. Perhaps when you stop thinking of it as the "guy's side" you'll be more comfortable in there. I've yet to see a gym where they hang a MEN'S sign over the free weight section (altho I have seen many gyms have a women's only workout room).

Start thinking of it the "Magic" side and go over there and make the magic happen. No one will bite you and everyone will be nice to you and willing to help you if you ask them. Trust me on this.

Oh, I so totally understand! Is that sense of, you don’t belong here… like walking into a classroom and seating just to find out that the “chair belongs” to someone else because everybody is looking at your “wrong”… Yeah. Well, this is what I did. I looked at my husband in the eye, pointed at him and said, “I don’t care is we have to go to the gym after work when I’m supposed to be cooking , that is the only time you have to go with me and we are going! You will be my spotter, change my plates, and introduce me to the area. After I find my rhythm we can go back to going at separate times!” You know what? It worked. He is going with me and likes it, I guess he like the idea of bossing me around. Anyways, find someone to go with you at the beginning or hire a trainer for one session to show you around. It helps. Good luck!

Just remember when at the gym you are there for your self and for change.. Dont care what they think.. just remember oneday you will be lifting the same as them if you keep it up and look good doing it..

I must go to a strange gym or something because it's pretty even with men and women on both "sides" of the gym.

I definatly agree- it's everyones side... I pay for it just like they do! I saw one lady going to town on that side and I was totally envious!

go and chat to her next time you see her so you have a pal in the 'boys section'

i would feel awkward too but you need to mark your territory and get on with the job you have

Headphones. I do my own thing and try not to worry about them. And I (33 y/o fat mom) go to a primarily student gym and share the weight area with very bro-y fraterinity guys and athletes. F-'em

Just do your thing and don't worry about anyone else. Most people are doing the same, they have no interest is what you are doing. I do like to go with a friend though, makes me feel more comfortable than being on my own! Then I have someone to talk to about how much I lifted and how many reps I did. Just keep going, soon you will feel comfortable! Good luck!

Don't think of it as the "guys side", you belong there as much as they do.

And you're crazy if you think that a bunch of men aren't going to be happy about a girl in their general vicinity.

They will love it.