Suffering from 'Gymtimidation'? You're not alone...

‘Gymtimidation’, AKA. the fear of exercising at the gym or in front of people... and the reason I became a women’s health specialist! I am passionate about increasing women’s confidence in training and encouraging females to take up space in the usually dubbed ‘men’s section’ of the gym or fitness world.

So let’s look at the stats and how we can overcome those gym floor scaries!

FEARS VS. FACTS

58% of women feel that they will be judged if they use equipment incorrectly...

Each gym has different equipment, but they usually work the same! If you’re unsure, find the instructions on the machine or on YouTube, or ask one of the gym staff!

42% of women think that regular gym-goers will look down on them if they have incorrect form...

Everyone was a beginner once! With repitition and time, your confidence will build and so will your form. Keep going and ask for help if needed!

55% of women would avoid the gym because they don’t feel they look fit enough...

This usually stems from social media, which is a highlight reel. Everyone, especially fitness professionals, tend to post their best and most curated photos, but that’s not a marker of health or ‘fitness’. Your fitness journey is your own, so don’t compare yourself or your body to anyone else's!

HOW CAN WE OVERCOME GYMTIMIDATION?

If you’re prone to gymtimidation, or fear is holding you back from exercise, try to:

• Remember that regular exercise and weight training have hugely beneficial impacts on your health and wellbeing, including improved hormone balance, bone density, body composition, and mental health (to name only a few).

• Find a repetitive, progressive programme and stick to it - you’ll become familiar with the exercises, feel more confident with form and equipment, and you’ll start seeing results which will keep you motivated to continue!

• Train with friends or find an accountability buddy - this could be a friend, coach, colleague or partner.

• Ask for a tour of the gym so that you’re familiar with where the equipment is, and even ask for demonstrations from the staff or trainers in your gym. I promise they’ll be happy you asked for help, and didn’t feel you had to struggle in silence!

• Remember even fitness professionals feel intimidated or uncomfortable in the gym from time to time. We all have low confidence days, and I always feel it when I go to a new gym! Remember everyone is there for themselves, so no-one will be too interested in what you’re doing or how you look!

BE THE FUTURE OF FEMALE FITNESS!