Joining the gym - how to get over fear?

I understand where you're coming from. I live in a college town next to an air force base so freaking EVERYBODY is in better shape (most of their dogs are too). I can easily be the fattest person in my school's gym or the fattest person running outside. How do I get over the fear? I don't care. People are going to think what they want to think and that doesn't matter. Am I going to let the opinion of a stranger stand in the way of my goals/hobbies? Hell no. I'm gonna do what I wanna do, end of story!

Whatever you do don't wear jeans while working out.

put some head phones in listen to some music that gets you pumped and then go HAM good to go.

Go in with music or a book on tape or get on a cardio machine with a book, you will be amazed once you start you stop noticing everything around you. If I happen to see someone who is larger or obviously out of shape my only thought is, awesome! look at them making good choices! Mostly though I'm focused on getting my own workout in. You just have to give yourself a prep talk, get in there and get it done. Maybe sign up for a training session or two so that you have an idea of some routine to start and then you will be so focused on your goals you wont care about anyone else or feel self conscious! Maybe start with just a short visit, don't overwhelm yourself, then build it into your routine. Kudos to you for facing your fears!!

I started at the gym having 80 pounds (at least) to lose and being old besides. I was very self-conscious, but two very nice older women who were regularly beside me on the treadmills quickly became my gym buddies, and now I look forward to seeing them every morning as I get in my workouts. The first few visits will be the worst. Just smile pleasantly at people and say "Hello," and pretty soon you'll be an old hand. :flowerforyou:

People do not really care - they are in in their own little bubble and dot really notice other people. What gets me though is that people are so unfriendly, they never smile back at me and make me feel like if I have just come out of a mental institution. Do not worry, you will only be a newbie for a day.

I was terrified when I first joined the gym. The only advice I can give you is just to go for it. Check out some workouts online - bodybuilding.com has a ton of programs with videos or you can youtube workouts. Knowing what you're supposed to be doing beforehand helped me tremendously, but the first time I tried a bench press I was still freaked out that everyone was looking at me. Now that I've been there for over a year, I can honestly say I never pay much attention to anyone else.

Just get in there and do it. I get nervous going anywhere new where I don't know anybody, but I've come to realize that after a couple of weeks it's not biggie...it's just that initial comfortableness but it goes away.

Thank you so so much everyone, I feel better about it already. Don't worry I've got my gym clothes at the ready (no jeans!) and got headphones and playlists ready to go. I know that the first time will be the worst, I just worry about going when it's busy there.... Gonna have to get over it!

Also, if you don't know how to use something, don't be afraid to ask. Especially if you start lifting.

You just got to do it.

I have anxiety issues and just avoided all eye contact. Some day's I felt like crying but would just never speak to anyone and keep my head down doing my own thing.

Some days I had to spend a few minutes in the gym bathroom stall psyching myself up to go out there and into the weight room.

It eventually got better. Once I became a regular and started recognizing other people the gym became a safe place for me. I never learned anyones name but I knew what they were going to be doing and what machines they would be using.

In the end I loved it and now wish I could go back. Exercising at home alone is harder for me now.

Good luck! I hope you're able to stick with it and like it.

I would suggest to sign up for a training session (some gyms one free or half price for new members) and have the trainer show you how to use the machines, and or how to lift weight properly.

Hey! I recommend starting somewhere you're relatively comfortable. Just commit to 15-20 min light walking on the treadmill to get used to the environment. I think a beginner's biggest downfall is trying to use equipment they aren't familiar with, or having lofty cardiovascular goals. I know I did! Also know that *most* (I know there are some d-bags out there) are at the gym because they, too, want to be heart-healthy!

Take small steps, both literally and figuratively!

I was the same way... i go to the local rec center and was very self concious about myself as i am not a small person, didn't know how to use the equipment etc. staff is very approachable and i used a personal trainer to learn a few more things. i have made friends in the various classes i take and have just got to the point if they don't like what they see they don't have to look. where comfortable clothing and go for it... half the battle is getting there..

I do want to do some weights at some point Fourty6and2 - eventually! I'm hoping the staff will be nice and approachable.

check out stronglifts 5x5 program and make sure to watch lifting videos before you go in so you have some idea of what you're going to be doing. I would definitely suggest having somebody show you how to do the lifts before you start, just to make sure you don't get hurt!

Stronglifts Summary
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/560459-stronglifts-5x5-summary

Stronglifts Womens Group
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/groups/home/4601-stronglifts-5x5-for-women

I love Stronglifts. I just started it a couple weeks ago. There's a free phone app for it also.