Conquer ‘gym phobia’
Q: A new fitness club has opened in my neighborhood that offers great classes and a beautiful building. Several of my friends have already joined, and I would really like to join too. The problem is that I am overweight. I feel self-conscious and am afraid that everyone will look at me. I know the classes and other equipment at the gym will help me lose weight and feel better, but how can I get over my fear and begin doing something to help myself?
A: You’re not alone — there are many people who share your fear. A fitness facility, although full of opportunity, also can be filled with people who are nervous about who is watching, what they look like and if they will fit in with other members. The key is to not let this fear keep you from working toward your fitness goals and creating a healthier you.
Take a tour of the new club and learn what programs it has to offer. Go with a friend you feel comfortable around and ask questions. Try to tour the facility at the time of day you’re most likely to attend, and also look around at the other members’ interaction with each other and the staff.
Ask the club’s sales adviser for a trial membership. Many facilities will offer you the chance to work out for free for three to seven days so you can find out if you’re comfortable there. Take advantage of this trial time to check out classes and programs while seeing how you would feel as a member. This can be a great way to begin to get over your fears.
If you decide to join the new fitness facility, meet with a fitness professional to get acquainted with the gym’s features and overall layout. Most clubs offer initial orientation sessions with an on-staff personal trainer to help you get started. These sessions are designed to review your medical and activity background, design a basic workout program based on your fitness goals, and demonstrate the proper use of exercise equipment.
Working one-on-one with a fitness professional also can help you gain confidence in your abilities. After your initial orientation sessions, you can always continue working with your personal trainer, who will help you stay accountable and work with you until you feel confident and comfortable enough to work out on your own.
Remember that you’re not alone. Almost everyone at a fitness facility has a common goal, and that is to get healthy or remain healthy. You owe it to yourself to not let fear keep you from reaching your goals.
Always consult a physician before beginning an exercise program. Andrea Renee Wyatt, M.S.S., C.S.C.S., is a certified personal trainer with an extensive background in strength and conditioning as well as therapeutic recreation.