NEVER been to a Gym, Going Tomorrow. So scared, HELP PLEASE!
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This is one of those things that you really don't know till you walk in the door: what's the culture of the gym? The culture is as different as different stores in the mall, different schools, different bars.
At my company's gym, there are a couple of religious Muslim women who do the treadmill in their head scarves and flowing gowns. Some Indian women do the treadmill in their long shirts and cotton pants, too (though none of them do it in their saris because saris are too special to mess up in the gym).
Then there are a whole bunch of guys who come down in the polo shirts and jeans they wear at their desk and then go right back up to their desks again. (No, my workplace doesn't smell real good sometimes.) One of the few guys who actually wears workout clothes, I wish he wouldn't -- he wears spandex bike shorts that are so tight you can tell which side his ... um ... equipment is tucked to, and the general size and shape of it, which I definitely do not need to know, especially when he's lying on his back on the floor doing pelvic tilts.
You're welcome for that mental image. It's seared on my retinas now, so I might as well spread the joy to others.0 -
I had been in and out of gyms most of my life but had never really done any "lifting" and at my gym the weights are on a totally different floor and I thought it was just for the men. I was SOO scared to go into that area and it literally took me 4 months to finally work my way in. I am embarassed to admit it but I also once almost had an anxiety attack and just ran out because I thought people were staring at me.
Like so many other posters have said, everyone is there for the same reason and there will be people at varying degrees of ability. There will people people running 20 miles on the treadmill and there will be very heavy people trying their best to do 5 minutes of walking. Everyone needs to start somewhere.
Your trainer will show you how to use the equipment and it is very easy ..you will get that in no time. Always just ask questions to the staff if you need to know something new.
As for what to wear. Something breathable and comfy..no one is judging on that either. I typically wear some form of quick dry shirt or tank top and a pair of yoga type pants. Any comfy running shoes will do in the beginning as well. I sweat like a cow so I also wear a sweatband or thick cotton headband to keep the sweat from dripping into my eyes...but I notice most girls arent as gross as me in this department!0 -
http://ericamillard.com/?p=1566
It's not spam. It's titled "Dear new girl at the gym" and (though I'm a guy) It really touched home. When you first go you'll feel out of place, but you're there, you belong, you're starting on the same journey everyone else there is taking. Don't get discouraged because you're not as far along as they are. Keep going. They were all in your place at once.
I read that yesterday. It really is a nice piece.
Go ahead you will be fine. Are you joining? or going as a guest? The trainer will give you an instruction usually and if not whoever you are going with can give you a little help with the machines. To be truthful most people are too concerned with their own workout to worry about someone elses. I am sure there are people that look at others routines, what they wear but those people are not there for the reason they need to be.
I remember when I was starting out, 6 months ago and almost 60 lbs ago. I was on the elliptical at 250 lbs and this guy got on next to me and almost sneered. He matched my speed. He was panting at 10 minutes while I did 45. He saw me getting off sweating but not out of breath. I said to him" Don't worry it gets better with practice." I have a farm and work with horses, 1000 lb animals but he did not need to know that. LOL.:)0 -
You're bringing up 3 kids. Joining a new gym is going to be piss easy by comparison.
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There is a first for everything hun, just think... In around 5 months time you'll ask yourself what was all the fuss about! Doing things for the first time is very daunting but no one is there to judge you because you all have the same goal at the gym
xxxx 0 -
I would just tell the trainer that you don't know how to use anything and let them show you everything.
In a way- it could be a good thing. You have no bad habits to break! It's ideal that you have a trainer on board- don't feel like you have anything to show off to the trainer- it's their job to instruct you.
Just go in with appropriate attire (sneakers, well-fitted workout clothes, hair pulled back, if you choose to wear makeup, not makeup that will run all down your face and get in your eyes with sweat) and an open mind and you'll be fine.0 -
Don't overthink it. I literally flew off the end of my treadmill once because I got wrapped up watching the TV (it was the couch "PIVOT" episode of Friends, lol) and no one seemed to notice. I'm sure if I was in a head bleeding at the end someone would have come by, but people sort of keep to themselves, and that's how I like it. No one is staring, it's all in your head, just follow proper gym etiquette and you'll be fine.
As for what to wear, be comfortable. The only time I really NOTICE what people are wearing is (1) if it's super cute and (2) if it's inappropriate. If you're wearing work boots or jeans, people will notice. If you're wearing something that's showing off a ton of cleavage and you're at risk of falling out, people will notice (and not in a good way).0 -
You're bringing up 3 kids. Joining a new gym is going to be piss easy by comparison.
Agree!! You are a mom of 3 children, going to the gym will be a piece of cake! In fact it might even be a really great stress relief for you.
I've gone to a gym for years. There are still times that I'm not quite sure about how I'm supposed to use a machine and I'll just ask someone. I do the weights with the guys as well but everyone is respectful and friendly.
ps I'm a mom of 3.....love my gym time!0 -
Relax !
Baby steps are fine ........ don't try to learn everything the first day ......... it took me weeks & weeks to feel comfortable with the machines ...... if you're not sure about something, ASK QUESTIONS, rather than risk getting hurt.
One time I dropped a hard plastic water bottle in the locker rooom ........ it broke & water was EVERYWHERE ....... pretty embarrassing, but I told the staff right away cuz I didn't want anyone to slip.
Once you really start working on the machines, clean them off after use ...... people HATE seeing sweaty machines
Smile & have fun !0 -
I'm a TOTAL gym-a-phobe, even today. I started back on the fitness track in 2011 and go steadily. I still get feeling of dread when it's crowded, I still sometimes believe everyone there is staring at me and judging me for my weight, form (or lack there of) or my Green Lantern T-Shirt. But, then I take a moment, take a breath, get dressed and do work. By the time I leave, I feel fantastic. Here are some things I do to get myself right.
1. I work with a trainer from time to time. This helps me learn new exercises, define new goals and work on my form.
2. I have some things at home. I don't work out as much at home as I do "figure things out". for instance, I have a couple of kettlebells and have researched some kettlebell circuts on YouTube. When I fell comfortable with them, I add them into my gym work outs, too. This accomplishes 2 things. You can work on your form until you get it right. This will help avoid injury and give you confidence in an envirionment that's new to you.
3. Have a plan. Do a little research. Define your goals. Figure out how long you will be working out and how many days a week. Then do a little research. I guarantee you can find some sort of "plan" online that will be easy follow. Stay consistant with it for a period of time.
I'm not an expert, so take my advice with a grain of salt. What I can tell you is this, no one there is going to judge you more than you judge yourself. Figure out what works with you and have fun getting fit.
Add me if you like and enjoy your path to fitness.0 -
Good for you for going!
Everyone always says "nobody is looking at you, they're too focused on their own workout" which is true to an extent. However, I'm a people watcher. I love to watch people. So some people may look at you and watch what you're doing. But I am 99% sure that what is going through their mind is how awesome it is that you're there. Or maybe they're new too and are just looking to see what you're doing. It's totally normal.
If anybody asked me a question on how to use a machine, I would gladly help them out.0 -
Relax !
Baby steps are fine ........ don't try to learn everything the first day ......... it took me weeks & weeks to feel comfortable with the machines ...... if you're not sure about something, ASK QUESTIONS, rather than risk getting hurt.
One time I dropped a hard plastic water bottle in the locker rooom ........ it broke & water was EVERYWHERE ....... pretty embarrassing, but I told the staff right away cuz I didn't want anyone to slip.
Once you really start working on the machines, clean them off after use ...... people HATE seeing sweaty machines
Smile & have fun !
Do you bring the water bottles to each machine with you? or is it only allowed at locker room area0 -
best thing i ever did was join a gym on november 1st 2013. i had alerady lost 43 pounds i weighed 235 nad i was so scared to join. i almost had a panic attack in the parking lot. but after that first day of nerves. IT WAS AWESOME AND I LOVE THE GYM. you will too.0
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First time I went to a gym, I got the orientation and then was on my own. My first time "alone" I ended up using one of the machines in the opposite way - I was on my back and should have been on my stomach. Someone laughed and then someone else helped me. I was embarrassed. But 6 months later, I got a job at that same gym giving orientations to new clients.0
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Go and get into what you are trying to get out of the workout and get out. Don't worry about others. You are there for yourself and getting yourself better. Don't stop0
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Just remember... nobody is looking at you or judging you... because they are too pre-occupied with themselves... and maybe busy thinking the same thing about you judging them! Sometimes you just gotta "fake it till you make it". Walk in there like you belong, like you know exactly what you're doing and figure it out as you go along with the help of your trainer.... then pretty soon you will OWN it! Good luck and have fun!
ETA.... if you choose to use the machines.. they all have diagrams on how to properly use them... there's no shame in stopping and taking the time to read that so you know what to do.0 -
Just concentrate on you and shut out everyone else .. you will be fine.
It's quite good fun when you get into it .....
If you can, make enquiries about classes that will push you ... you see great results then ... I did on Jan 5th and with the help of MFP I have lost 10lbs and 2 inches of my bottom and waist.
Got to meet some lovely women and men too.
Good luck
MP0 -
I doubt anything we say will help you get over your fear. Only you can overcome that.
What I learned about the gym was that I just had to do it afraid until the fear subsided. I still have fear anytime I want to try something new but I just do it afraid. It's fear of the unknown, fear I'll look foolish, fear I won't know how, fear someone will laugh, fear that I'll get hurt, fear that it won't work, fear that I won't be able, the list goes on and on.
Do not let your fear get in the way of accomplishing your goals. Afraid to go to the gym? - go to the gym anyway. Afraid to ask questions?- ask them anyway. Afraid you'll fail? - the only way you fail is if you don't try, so try anyway.
The old Nike ads were spot on - Just do it.0 -
just listen to the trainer and they can show you a lot about the machines and equipment and how to use it If you ever forget or want to try a new machine and the trainer is not there, just go ask a staff member for help Don't worry, most people are paying more attention to themselves than to other people so don't feel self conscious If you know someone who goes to the gym, maybe ask them to come along sometime and see if they can give you some pointers? If not, the staff will be willing to help I'm sure
Good luck and don't let this scare you! You can do it 0 -
Don't worry about it so much, the more you go, the more you'll get used to it and soon you'll be the one looking at the new scared people coming in. Be polite, friendly and work your *kitten* off and you'll do fine. The gym staff would prefer if you asked them a question if you don't know how to work a machine, they don't need hurt people or damaged equipment.
It'll be great, you'll see.0 -
Thank you to JennifurC for posting this MUST read "note" it reminds me of myself those first few weeks of adjustment. Stidk with it new girl to the gym...You WILL amaze yourself! It all takes time. I have only worked with trainers a couple of times and found it was not for me, but don't let that discourage you because a trainer WILL teach you the how to's and provide tips that work for you. Be proud of yourself! It takes one step towards your goal...and you have taken the first one-keep going.0
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another question, Do people pay attention to what others wear at the gym? I went and got a few things yesterday but I worry I won't be wearing the right thing that the other women are wearing or so on.
At my company's gym, there are a couple of religious Muslim women who do the treadmill in their head scarves and flowing gowns. Some Indian women do the treadmill in their long shirts and cotton pants, too (though none of them do it in their saris because saris are too special to mess up in the gym).
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My neighborhood is pretty mixed culturally, and there's the Indian women in long shirts and cotton pants, and men wearing boater shoes, and grubby old sweats or whatever. I have no fashion sense, and I don't dress to impress at the gym. I wear loose fitting shorts, ( with the appropriate underwear :blushing: ) a totally non-fashionable T-Shirt, and skate shoes. I'm 53 years old. My wife gave me a gift certificate to a sports store... she seems embarrassed by my shoes at the gym. I keep telling her, I only warm up on the treadmill, ( I do cardio at home ) the rest of the time I am lifting ( although, I still use machines, almost exclusively ) and who cares about my footwear for that? Apparently, she does.
You know what? I've never caught anyone looking at me, when I'm in the gym... I just don't think anyone cares what other people are doing there.
I have to say, you are overthinking this. Making the appointment to go, was the hard part. Now that it's set.... you just go, and the trainer will take care of you. That's their job. They are trying to sell you on their gym. As others have said, you shouldn't sign anything before your session, and you should give some excuse not to sign right away. I use the, 'gotta talk it over with da wife' excuse all the time.
The contract system is how gyms make their money. The % of people who sign for 1 year or more, and never return, is huge. You should be pretty certain that you'll keep the commitment before laying out the $$$. I'm lucky where I am... the local rec center, has a pool, and a gym, ( and a hot tub, that's why I go.... ) and a daily rate, or 10 passes, or monthly, or 6 months, or 1 year. I did daily for months, before I was sure I was gonna keep going, then I bought a year.
Don't let nerves get the best of you. I waited a long time before I went back to the gym. I walked past it every day for months on my way to the pool... sort of looking in wistfully... and the day I finally got set up with a trainer, and a 1 hr refresher ( the place was completely renovated, and had all new machines since I'd been last 10 years ago ) I was SO happy I'd finally done it, and couldn't figure out why I'd waited so long.
The absolute worst that could happen is, you don't like it, so you don't return. Kind of like trying kale.0 -
I've been going to my gym for over a year, and felt the same why when I started too. BUT THEN......I realized the hour I spent there 5 days a week was my hour. Not anybody elses. I couldn't give a hoot who was looking at me, which it turns out, nobody was, because I was focused on my journey. It turned into a meditation for me. Ear buds in, music loud, and I get sweaty. Like other posters have said, you are taking the step to get there. Everybody started the same way, by walking in for the 1st time. You'll be fine. Music up, focus on you, not other people. Be a beast!0
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another question, Do people pay attention to what others wear at the gym? I went and got a few things yesterday but I worry I won't be wearing the right thing that the other women are wearing or so on.
no not really. Wear what makes you feel comfortable Just wear a comfortable shirt and shorts or pants. Something flexible, comfortable, and that you can breath in. Most women these days wear Lululemon however I'm too cheap for that!! And if you have a bunch to lose, you may go through a few outfits so I find cheaper is better until you are closer to goal weight I usually just go to walmart for my cloths :P 0 -
Do you bring the water bottles to each machine with you? or is it only allowed at locker room area
I always bring my water bottle with me, never seen a gym that made you leave it in the locker room. some gyms also have a water fountain but I find I need a lot of water so I don't want to get up every 5 min to walk to the fountain :P0 -
WOW never expected so many encouraging comments so quickly! Thank you so much! I am not big by any means, I am only 120lbs and some of you will probably think that I look perfect just basing it on my weight but I'm not at all. I've had 3 kids and other women know what it can do to our stomachs and thighs/legs. I am going to smaller gym bc a bigger gym scares me even worse. What would you all recommend as far as a commitment to the place? The contracts are 12, 18 months or 2 years. If I sign up for 2 years will that encourage me to keep going? or should I stick with only 12 months for now.
if it's your first gym, I would not commit to 2 years just yet. you may realise a few months down the road that the other gym is more suited to you (equipment, atmosphere, or whatever) and want to switch. I'm not huge on contracts :P0 -
I would just tell the trainer that you don't know how to use anything and let them show you everything.
^This is basically what I wanted to say; communicate right up front with the trainer that you're a bit nervous and have never used any of the machines before. Then he/she knows exactly where you are at and can help accordingly. Don't worry so much about details like what you are wearing; as others have pointed out, no one really is going to care. You'll be fine! :flowerforyou:0 -
Read this...http://ericamillard.com/?p=1566
Its called "Dear new girl at the gym" and its spot on. Go for it, you'[ll do great
LOL- I just about to post this and you beat me to it!0 -
There are a lot of replies to this topic, so forgive me if someone has already said this, but for motivation if you add friends on myfitnesspal and interact with them regularly. If you have active friends it can help motivate you greatly.0
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They require a contract, most places around my area do :-( The trainer/manager was so nice, he said the first session of training is free but he said he would help me our a few times until I got the hang of it. What if he is busy at the times I go? Ahh I worry toooo much I know! How do you stay motivated? I feel like once I start and get tired I will want to stop. I can not push myself at home I try to do squats/lunges and I do like 30 and stop. I never can keep doing it. I have no motivation I feel the pain and stop. Is it different at a gym, will I give up just as easily there?
You sound like me! My mind starts going 100mph with all the "what if's, what about's" and worrying about stuff I think MAY happen, lol. It can be exhausting can't it?
Does the gym you are going to offer classes as well? That may be another good way to get your feet wet and meet some new people, and try something new. (like Zumba...so fun!)
30 squats or lunges is nothing to sneeze at honey! I have done the gym thing and the at-home thing. When I was motivated, the at-home thing worked great, I was dedicated and saw results. But then I started slacking. My hubs and I have now joined the Y together (again) because I feel like I want to do more strength training, plus I missed the dancing-based classes.
Good luck! Friend me if you want, I'm a 32 yr old mom of 2.0
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