4 Ways to Beat Gym Anxiety

Jenna Rizzo, a weight loss coach for women based in Georgia, offers four straightforward tips to ease gym-related anxiety.

“You know you need to hit the gym because your body isn't going to transform on its own,” Rizzo informed her 82,500 TikTok followers last week.

She admitted in her 82-second video, “I understand how daunting it can be to step into a gym and instantly feel everyone’s eyes on you.

It used to terrify me so much that I would only use the treadmill before rushing home.”

A 2022 survey indicated that nearly 90% of Americans are concerned about how they’re perceived at the gym, with 27% feeling "extremely" worried.

This phenomenon, called “gymtimidation,” is most common in Oregon, Kansas, and Massachusetts, according to the poll.

Choose the Right Day and Time

Recent studies indicate that Tuesday at 5 p.m. is the most crowded time at the gym, followed by Monday at 5 p.m. and Tuesday at 6 p.m.

Conversely, Sunday between 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. is considered a less busy period.

“Going during quieter hours helps you get used to the gym environment,” Rizzo remarked. “You'll feel more comfortable, and gradually build the confidence to attend during busier times.”

Bring a Friend

“This is always a trusty approach,” Rizzo suggested. “Find someone to accompany you, even if they're not familiar with the gym. Having company can really ease your nerves.”

Have a Plan

“Roaming around without a clear idea of what to do can be overwhelming. Avoid putting yourself through that,” Rizzo recommended.

“Having a structured plan enables you to transition from one exercise to another with confidence, leading to better results.”

Don’t Worry About what Others say

“Keep in mind that we are inherently self-absorbed. When you head to the gym, it may feel like everyone is watching you, but more often than not, that’s simply not true,” Rizzo explained. “Most people are too focused on themselves, often admiring their own reflection in the mirror. Dr. Daniel Amen, a double board-certified psychiatrist and brain-imaging researcher based in California, has an insightful 18-40-60 rule regarding anxiety that applies to the gym.

“When you’re 18, you’re preoccupied with what others think of you,” Amen said. “By the time you’re 40, you stop caring about others' opinions. And at 60, you come to realize that nobody has been thinking about you at all.”

Source: nypost

The opinions shared in the GymNation blog articles are solely those of the respective authors and may not represent the perspectives of GymNation or any member of the GymNation team.