Embarrassing

look at it this way..your doing this for yourself who cares what others think..i used to be the same way..not anymore..i love being out there doing what is right for MYSELF...

You just have to realize that most people at a gym aren't looking at you, they're more focused on what they're doing. And if someone is looking at you, flaunt it a little, give them a show. Have fun with it. :laugh:

Most people are emabarrased because they think they aren't doing it "right." Often times if you hire a personal trainer to show you exactly what to do and how to do it you can move past it. Even if you just work out at home, knowing the right form and technique can help you feel more confident in knowing that what you are doing is right.

Also, keep in mind that everybody shold be exercising. It is not just for overweight people. I have a couple of clients that struggled with coming to the gym because to them it was an admission of being overweight. It is a GREAT thing. And teaching your 5-year old daughter that will set a good example for her.

I used to feel like that too. My friend and I run first thing in the morning, and she really likes the fact that there isn't a lot of people out at that time. I've stopped caring if people judge me when they see me exercise, because I am out there for myself. I also know that there are a bundle of people who love and support me in my life that if someone is going to judge me, I don't need them around me. I'm out there for me, to better myself and be healthy, and that itself outweighs anything that someone I don't know thinks of me! :bigsmile:

Had a conversation with a lady from work about this recently. She was telling me about looking good at the gym etc. It's the gym, you're not supposed to look good. Regardless of what you look like or your fitness level the fact that you are there getting something done is all that is important. Also, like anything in life everyone is new at something at some point, most people you see at the gym would more than likely be willing to help you out regarding some advice, technique, etc.

Most important thing, the right mindset is this. You're going to the gym for YOU, and your opinion is the only one that matters.

I've been this way for years and can sympathize. Some things that I've done over the last two years to work out: I walk early in the morning just around my neighborhood. (This even took some getting used to.) I bought the Wii Fit which I have enjoyed for a straight year! I tracked my weight and did strength exercises on it. Eventually I got a very affordable, small, basic treadmill. In general I had to become very creative and self-motivating inside my house and make sure I didn't get distracted with answering the phone or doing laundry instead of working out, etc.

When walking in the morning, I had panic attacks the first month or so whenever I passed someone in the neighborhood. Eventually, they became familiar faces and I didn't have so much anxiety. This may work for you at the gym. If you go with a gym partner or meet someone there, you may be more comfortable. Also bringing headphones helps and a magazine. This way you don't think people are talking about you (because you can't hear them) and you don't have to make eye-contact with anyone.

There is nothing that says you have to exercise in public. Exercise videos, video games, home equipment are all effective and you save time and gas by not packing up and heading to a different location. :flowerforyou: