The women's fitness blog

People have many reasons for avoiding joining a gym. Perhaps in these difficult economic times, it's just too expensive. Maybe they're too busy with work or family. Or it could be the case that they would love to go, but there is no gym near them. Or perhaps it's just that the gym is too far away.

Well, there's not much I can do about these problems. (If you can't afford a gym membership, you can make the most of the various exercises you can do at home.) But there's another issue that a lot of people, particaularly women, have with gyms - they are intimidated. By the machines, by the open space, or by the other people.

While you may be reluctant to admit it, it still holds true – everyone is, to a certain degree, intimidated by the gym. The idea of walking through a wide open space with dozens if not hundreds of pieces of machinery that you’re unfamiliar with is enough to cause reluctance. However, add to this the fact that you will be working out in front of people and it becomes more daunting.

Fortunately, there are a variety of choices for you when it comes to selecting a gym to workout and each of these gyms offer a different kind of atmosphere. You need to find a gym that is appealing to both you and your experience level. You may prefer a women-only gym - Curves is an example of such a gym. Some gyms offer women-only fitness classes. It's up to you to do your research into what a potential gym offers.

So you that know how to find a gym that where you can feel comfortable, let's consider the reasons why you may find gyms intimidating. For each of the folowing reasons, think about whether this is an issue for you, and find a gym that counterbalances your fears.

Open spaces and strangers

Many people are shy when it comes to getting red-faced and sweaty in front of strangers. This is where a large gym with a wide open space of viewing may not be ideal for you. Typically, health clubs have rows of cardio machines lined up across the floor of one major room. You can see dozens of people working out, and dozens of people can see you. If this is a problem, you amy want to wear looser fitting clothes - remember, the gym is not a fashion show. Those who think it is are there for the wrong reasons, and their opinion is worth nothing. Keep a tight schedule of exercise - this willl focus your mind elsewhere; and once you have been a few times, you will not be embarrassesd at all.

Getting to know the ropes

The problem - You are usually given a quick tour by the salesperson, but you may not know what any of the machinery is. You may not know the rules for each piece of equipment. Do you have to wipe each piece of equipment down after use? Are time limits, etc? If you have a friend who goes to the gym, tag along with them for the first couple of times. If not, make sure you ask for an induction. Some gyms offer dedicated personal trainers - having their advice and support during training sessions will get your confidence up very quickly.

Pushy salespeople

If you want to keep a low profile going to the gym, a chatty salesperson who tries to charm you into joining won't help. While there are some health clubs that aren’t pushy, some encourage their salespeople to get you to sign on a dotted line for a contract. This means that some gym salespeople will say anything to get you to sign. Don't be forced to sign anything out of politeness and always read the small print. If you didn't like what you saw or heard, make your excuses and leave. Shop around in the same way you would if you were buying a used car - try to get the best value for your money.

The hot bodies

If you go to a gym there is some part of your body that you want to improve. You may be a little bit overweight, or you may be a lot overweight. Regardless, it’s hard to workout and get a rhythm when there are hotties with perfect abs working out beside you. It’s important though, to remember that everyone was a beginner at one point of their gym-going lives. You're all in the same boat. I have never experienced any negative perception of someone at a gym just because of their weight, age or appearance. People at the gym are just ordinary people off the street. By going to the gym you demonstrate that you are also interested in your fitness and appearance. And isn't sharing a common interest the best way to make new friends.

If you’ve looked and can’t find a gym that works for you, you can always consider private health clubs, wellness centers, and as always, you can just workout at home.

Labels: fitness, gym