Joining a Gym But I HATE GYMS

For me...I had to get around the mindset that I didn't fit in there and that it was inconvenient and uncomfortable.
I did it by distracting myself with others. The people watching is awesome and I learned a lot of great free weight exercises by hanging out (ok stalking) that section.

Helps too if you plan for it...make sure you have everything ready or packed. Build it into your schedule. I know other women like the classes as it makes them feel like they have a responsibility to show up.

Also plan on less lengthy times at first. Say you will go a few times a week but only an hour max...including weights, cardio, everything. Then there is no excuse...you can make time for it. Gradually you will likely want to stay longer anyway.

Have a plan written out. All your goals or exercises for that session..that week. It can help if you check stuff off the list and it is nice to chart progress too.

Lastly...ogle the eye candy. A lot.

Bring your music and get lost in your headset -- I have an Ipod Nano and use the fitness settings for running and then listen to podcasts, music, and audio books while I lift. After I'm done, I reward myself with a nice long hot shower -- I figure I'll get my monies worth from those monthly charges.

I have a lifelong fear and hatred of group exercise, starting from gym class in elementary school (and the dreaded measurements and weight that everyone heard...good lord, I hope they realize now, 35 years later, how traumatizing that can be...). I knew I needed to join a gym, though - I needed the push, and the "this is the place I exercise" feeling.

I had to get past that fear of everyone staring at me and judging me. I still face it every day when I go in there, but so far, no one has given me the stink eye or stared or anything. I've been lucky - I found some great people there.

I think a lot of it is how we view ourselves, not how others view us. At least, in my experience, that's a big part of it.

This may not help, but I work pt in a gym and when I sign up members they mostly have the same fears that you do. So just go into it knowing you're not alone. More than half of the people in there share the same insecurities as you. You got this!! Once you get going you will put those fears in the back of your mind. Best of luck!!