Nervous about going to the gym

I have the same thing. I usually chose the time of day when the gym is the LEAST busy. So either crack of dawn or right before they close. The gym I go to is usually dead around 1-3 so I make sure I go during those times or I don't go at all. I also will do a lot of exercises at home (walking around area, weights in my room, etc).

When you walk into the gym remember who you are there for and don't worry about what other people are thinking. When I go I have my head phones on and think of why I am there and I start thinking about how I am going to look at the end of my weight loss journey. I have at least 100 lbs to lose and still go to the gym. I am there for me. I say to my self if they don't like what they see, DON'T LOOk. It is a mind set and you can get there. Just do it!!!!!! You will feel so much better about yourself. Good Luck!

Awwww, you guys. . . I used to be the fat girl at the gym and I used to feel the same way. Then I woke up, looked at myself in the mirror and told myself, 'I hate the way I look and I hate the way I feel.' And that terrible feeling made me forget about being the fat girl and I wanted to do something about it more than I cared what someone else think. I realized that what I thought about me was a lot more important than what someone else thought. You can do this. It doesn't matter what anyone else thinks. The funny thing is that now, I've lost a total of 59 lbs (44 before I found MFP) and I've become friends with several people at the gym and we work out together and support each other and it's been really awesome and really helpful.

You can do it!!!

A lot of those size 4 or 6 people at the gym are former bigger sizes. I used to be a size 12/14. I sure don't judge people when I see them working out. I'm always just glad to see someone working toward the same goals as me-- a healthy lifestyle, no matter what size.

So, get in there and focus on you and only you. Something that might help is to carry an ipod. I'm a shy person and I don't like to talk much (esp at the gym) so I have them in my ears right as I walk in the doors. But, you might be a people person and enjoy making some friends while your there-- your preference.

No matter what, don't worry about what others are thinking. Most are there to get in a good workout and are only focused on that.

get a gym partner (skinny or not!) and workout together. This way, you don't feel lonely, and you could care less if others are looking at you. Besides, shame on them if they give you a funny look, just because you made the right step to take charge of your weight management and healthy living ... :flowerforyou:

just go just remember you are doing this for your health and your well being.

I'd recommend bringing some that will distract you from the skinny-minnies around you. For example, create a playlist that you love with some songs that make you feel good, no matter where you are. I also will bring a book to the gym and do the stationary bike, which makes the time fly because you're not paying attention to anyone around you, but you're still getting a great workout.

I am a complete advocate for the local YMCA. So much so I have been an employee for 10 yrs! And I am only 26 yrs old. As an employee let me tell you what we say/ think of the heavier people that come in. We think they are incredibly brave for trying something new and being proactive about your health. We HOPE that you continue to come back. We get excited when we start seeing the changes in your appearance. Everyone understands how terrifying entering a gym can be if you never have before. I recommend forking out the money for a personal trainer. (Just for a few lessons if anything) That way you can get orientated with the equipment. Then you can walk in proudly knowing that you are doing the exercises/machines correctly. Also it is a great way to stick to working out in the beginning because you feel like you are being held accountable by having to show up to meet with them. I would recommend seeing a trainer once a week in the beginning so that way it keeps you coming back even if you get discouraged. 6 weeks of something and then it becomes habit right!?

If you go to your gym at the same time of the day all the time you will start recognizing faces as you walk in. Remember everyone in that gym whether they are skinny or big ALL have ONE thing in common. To become healthier then what they are! Hold your head high, smile when you make eye contact with someone, and say hello! A gym can become just as good of a support group as MFP believe it or not! People love being inspired by others and seeing the successes of others. Real friendships can and do form from a gym.

Also if you think you can't afford a gym see if there is a YMCA close to you because at least in St. Louis a YMCA will not turn away anyone because they can't afford it. They will take in account your income and work with you to figure out a price that you can afford.