Scared of the Gym?

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Going to the gym for the first time (ever or in a while) can be daunting. But working out does not have to be torture. Think about why you want to go in the first place. Do you want to get stronger? Are you looking for a stress reliever? Here are a few things that I found helpful!

 SIDE NOTE: Do not feel pressured to start a workout regime because society tells you to be thinner. Losing weight does not need to rule your life. You are perfect at a size 2 or 32.

1. Decide which gym is right for you.
Do you enjoy group or class exercises? Perhaps a gym that offers a wide range of classes is your forte. Maybe you need something close to your house if you don't have a lot of time to commute. If you aren't interested in specialized equipment, perhaps a more affordable club is right. They have less specific equipment but unless you're a bodybuilder, you won't even notice. Ponder these ideas as you search for the gym you like. Keep in mind, most gyms offer tours and free trials. Give it a go for a week and cancel if that specific club isn't right for you.

2. Grab some gear.
Purchase an outfit or pair of shoes that gets you excited to go! Use these only for the gym so you look forward to putting them on every time. Working out requires special gear--no flip flops or jeans y'all. If you're going to be working out, you'll need the appropriate wardrobe, so be on the lookout for items you like. You don't have to spend a ton of money either. Try the clearance section or thrift stores.

3. People are going to stare at you--its inevitable.
There are two types of people at the gym. The people who are there to work out and the people who are there to look at the people working out. The majority of people--80%-- are focused on themselves and the task at hand. However, you will always encounter the creepy males that stare at your butt as you squat or the petty girls that judge you for running on the treadmill. Blast your music and ignore them. You do you! Also sometimes people will look at you simply because you're impressive and they think you're a bomb chick for lifting those weights.

4. Remember that whatever your goals, you have just as much right to be there as anyone else.
Go to the gym because you want to, not because you feel like to have to. Going to the gym does not have to be about losing weight. In fact, you're perfect the way you are and you should not be focused on the scale. Working out is a great stress reliever and endorphin release. You'll sleep better and find that little things don't bother you as much. Sweating helps detox your body from the day. I love lifting heavy weights and feeling my muscles burn the next day. I like pushing myself to my limit and learning how to extend those limits each time I go back.

A few other thoughts:
-bring a friend, boyfriend, or family member
-try listening to a podcast, audiobook, or kick ass playlist
-you can workout whenever you'd like (morning, lunch break, afternoon, evening)
-if you like schedules, create a workout schedule that fits your life
-watch youtube videos for workout moves
-most of the machines have diagrams on them to show you how to effectively use it (they are very useful to newcomers)
-use apps like myfitnesspal or fitbit to log your workouts (some gyms have their own apps too)

Check out Louise Green on social media or her website. Her book, Big Fit Girl, is a refreshing take on working out. A MUST READ!

Working out is fun! Take the fear out of the gym and treat yourself by lifting those heavy weights. You are a bad ass.