The idea of going to the gym and having people see me work out terrifies me. Even swimming (which is big where I live) feels overwhelming. I used to attend yoga classes, but that seems like a huge leap now. I currently work out at home but don’t have equipment like a treadmill or stepper, and I want to overcome this fear. I think it’s because it’s something new for me.
What are some positive experiences you’ve had at the gym? Why do you prefer going to the gym over working out at home?
“Having other people watch me work out” makes it seem like others are paying attention to you, trust me, they are not. Most people at the gym don’t care what others are doing and are focused on themselves, which is what you should do too. You deserve to be there, just like everyone else. Just go, it’ll get easier.
I was just using some jokey wording, I know everyone isn’t actually watching me, but thanks 
I teach classes at multiple gyms, and I can assure you that instructors are always happy to see people make an effort to get healthier. Don’t waste your time on rude or mean individuals.
I enjoy it when girls come up and chat with me; it is always a nice little interaction. One time, an older man came over and said, “Wow, you’re stronger than all the boys”, it made me laugh!
As someone who still feels intimidated by the gym but has been consistent for the past few months, I would suggest finding a basic routine on YouTube and just going for it. Most people are focused on their own workouts, and you will notice this the more you go.
If there is a row of bikes, treadmills, or ellipticals with a good view of the gym, starting there for your warm-up can help calm your nerves. You’ll get a better sense of the space while working out and can plan your next move without feeling lost.
I am a bit tired of my gym, but the staff at the front who check you in always say, “Have a good workout,” which is nice.
I have never had a proper home gym setup beyond a makeshift one during COVID-19, so I prefer going to a gym. I’ve found that people are generally friendly when you talk to them there. Once, a guy commented on my squat form, which I still struggle with, and gave me some helpful tips. I remember it well because his form was excellent, and he was very polite about it. 
I was very avoidant due to social anxiety for a long time, but when I started a fitness program that required gym equipment, I wasn’t ready to invest in a home setup. So, I joined the local YMCA. Going out to work out helps me avoid making excuses or postponing, and once there, I focus on my workout.
At first, it was intimidating, but honestly, everyone sticks to their routine, and I haven’t been bothered at all. I’m not fit yet and was worried that the more serious gym-goers would judge me or be unkind, but everyone has been perfectly pleasant.
I once asked a guy for help because the chair adjustment was stuck, and he quickly fixed it for me. It was very kind of him, so I rushed through my workout to let him use it.
I experience some social anxiety and have felt similarly about being seen while working out. I enjoy the sauna, so for a week, I went to the gym intending to use the sauna for 10-15 minutes before leaving. The sauna remains a big reason why I like going! When I’m less motivated for a full workout, I tell myself I’ll just go for the sauna, and I usually end up doing a bit more once there. I also enjoy seeing familiar faces and routines each week. Sometimes I don’t interact with anyone, but when I do, it’s usually just to check if equipment is available. These brief, friendly interactions have helped with my anxiety about being in public spaces. I’m still working up to group classes, but regularly going to the gym has made me more comfortable with running outdoors and climbing at the bouldering gym. It has opened up many new opportunities for me, and I hope it might do the same for you.
I go to a gym located in a retirement community, and it has been incredibly motivating to see it busy every day. I often see people nearly twice my age who are fit, healthy, flexible, and quite happy. It gives me hope that with effort and consistency, I can maintain my health.
There was one instance when I was struggling with jump rope exercises, I could not complete a single jump without tripping. I felt so frustrated that I nearly cried. An inspiring regular, an 80-year-old lady (she’s amazing!), noticed my struggle. She smiled and said, “These things are challenging, but you’ll get it! Don’t give up.”
She was right. A week later, I can now do 3 sets of 30 jumps! I am working on increasing that number, but it’s become manageable. I truly appreciated her kind encouragement.
That’s a fantastic idea! I used to go to a climbing gym with some coworkers before I moved, and I enjoyed it!
I can assure you that no one at the gym will notice or care about what you’re doing. Most of us are either zoning out between sets or focused on our own workouts.
As a slim girl, I made it a goal to become as strong as possible. I receive a lot of positive feedback from others who are impressed by the weight I’m lifting (for someone my size) and appreciate the support and fist bumps. I spent a few months at an Olympic weightlifting gym, and it was the best experience I ever had. The coaches were incredibly helpful, and the other gym-goers were all very friendly. The women who had been there for over a year were especially encouraging, which was great since it was my first time. I never felt out of place or embarrassed, even when I tripped or made mistakes.
If someone seems to be looking at you at the gym, chances are they’re not judging you. Most likely, they are either admiring your outfit or observing your exercise to possibly incorporate it into their routine.
Or they might just be zoned out with no thoughts at all. 
So true! My gym time is my chance to zone out and listen to podcasts, lol.
Exactly. Between sets, I go into a sort of vegetative state, lol.
I used to think people were judging me when I first started at the gym, but then I saw an Instagram video of a girl making mistakes with her exercises, and no one even paid attention. One time, she even put her feet on the seat of a lat pull-down machine, and again, nobody noticed. Most people are too focused on themselves to notice others, and they likely think others are laughing at them too, but they’re not. I love the gym because it makes me feel strong and confident. I used to work out in my hotel room while traveling, but shorter workouts made it hard to stay motivated. The gym is great for building confidence and consistency. Consider returning to yoga classes; just going once could make you feel amazing. Yoga has introduced me to some of the kindest and most open-minded people. It might be scary to go back, but it’s worth it for both your body and mind. Take small steps and take care! 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻