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4 Beginner Gym Fears And How You’ll Conquer Them in Your Gym Induction
4 Common Gym Fears Beginners Face In a Gym Induction
Worried about starting the gym; Learn the 4 biggest worries beginners have In a Gym Induction - Use these tips to overcome each one with confidence.
Stepping into a gym for the first time can feel intimidating. Whether it’s fear or concerns, not knowing how to use the equipment, correct form, fitting in, or just simply not knowing where to start! I can assure you many beginners feel overwhelmed.
Top 4 worries a new gym beginner may have!
The good news is You’re not alone and these worries are more common than you think when having a Gym Induction!
A Fitness journey is a big deal and for many people, walking into the gym for the first time feels more nerve-wracking than exciting. If you’re a beginner, you’re not alone in feeling uncertain. Everyone starts somewhere, and nearly every gym-goer has shared the same worries at some point
In this post, we break down the top 5 concerns gym beginners face and how to overcome each one and give little tips along the way!
Jonathan Gomez AlexandraNow lets over come them fears with confidence!
1. “I Don’t Know What I’m Doing”
The fear: You Walk into the gym and instantly feel overwhelmed. Machines, weights, cardio equipment all staring at you and your thinking where do you even begin? Uncertainty about how to structure your workouts or knowing what exercises are best?
The truth: No one is born knowing how to train. Everyone learns over time. The best way to start is to keep it simple: use basic machines, follow a beginner program, or even book an induction with a trainer. Most gym staff are happy to help that’s what they’re there for. This is what a Gym Induction is for – Try to book a private gym induction rather than a commercial to get the most from your PT.
Tip: Focus on consistency, not complexity. You’ll build confidence session by session. You tube is a great help for tips on equipment and how to use it. Start with what you enjoy most whether it be lifting weights, rowing or running.
2. “People Are Judging Me" -> “the spotlight effect”
The fear: You may feel that when you walk into a gym, everyone’s watching you. You’ll think that everyone is looking at your appearance, then you’ll probably think I don’t know where to start. The thoughts of not knowing what the equipment is used for and how to operate it; whether you’re on the treadmill or lifting weights, you could feel judged in many ways.
Ex. It could be, for not lifting as heavy as the person who is next to you. Another possibility is not running for as long as they can and feeling out of breath quickly on the treadmill. All these thoughts can become a nightmare to you. Seeing others who are fitter or advanced can lead to discouragement or self-doubt!
The truth: Most people at the gym are too focused on their own workouts to notice what anyone else is doing. In fact, seasoned gym-goers often respect beginners for showing up and trying to make the effort to be in the gym and starting their journey.
Clothing and what you look like can be very daunting! If your already feeling judged exposing your body parts will certainly draw more attention to yourself and more likely to be judged. I feel women should keep covered up especially the thigh and boob area.
Modesty goes along way for both men and women, have you ever thought about wearing a gym skirt to the gym. The first time I wore a gym skirt to the gym, I felt more comfortable than what I would; exposing all my thighs in tight leggings which outlines the shape of my entire body.
It’s natural for people to stare and I truly believe this is the most judged thing in the gym. It’s called “vanity”!
Louise GrahamThe thought of training can make me feel tired, motivated and I never regret a workout.
Here is an example of a gym skirt for a Female.
Tip: Use headphones, plan your workouts in advance, use the equipment that you enjoy to get you motivated and most of all feel comfortable in Modest clothing.
3. “I’ll Look Silly Using the equipment Wrong with in-proper form”
The fear: You’re not sure how to use a machine, and you worry about doing it wrong or worse, injuring yourself or generally looking at it thinking what does this do and the benefits of it? Should I use it or should I not? Worried that you’re getting in the way, standing waiting for equipment or stood in the wrong spot. Well-read on…
The truth: It’s OK to ask for help from your local personal trainer, They may be able to give you a gym induction. Everybody starts somewhere and there’s always people around to help whether it be a gym user or a member of staff. Watching yourself in the mirror to check proper form can also be of help with use of a personal training app.
Tip: Stick with bodyweight exercises or guided machines first they’re user-friendly and effective. Most gyms offer free Gym Induction sessions or have trainers on the floor or directories who can show you how to use equipment properly in your Local Gym or In their Private Gym. Watch some short tutorials on you tube they be of great help!
Gomez Valiant Performance – All Round Athlete – YouTube
I certainly needed help Some machines look like transformers to me “Badassatron”
I wouldn’t off had a clue what they did if it wasn’t for my personal trainer Gomez.
Considering a personal trainer is a good option because I was taught how to use gym equipment which meant not doing a gym induction at a commercial gym.
Not every beginner or in fact any gym goer knows the ins and outs of every piece of equipment especially as new models and different type of equipment are produced yearly, the thought of using faulty equipment or not even knowing if the equipment is functioning can become overwhelming.
Most gym tours are rushed, impersonal and feel transactional. Your shown the machines, locker room and maybe a group class – but not how to use any of it with expert advice from Gomez, You will learn this! The lack of familiarity can cause a lot of stress an become a MENTAL OVERLOAD!
4. “I Won’t Stick with It” comparing yourself to others is unwise!
The fear: You’ve started and stopped before, and you’re afraid this will be another failed attempt. It’s easy to feel discouraged when others seem more athletic. Try not to compare yourself to everyone. As we all have our own journey.
The truth: Falling off track in the past doesn’t mean you’re doomed to repeat it. The key this time is building habits, not intensity. Start with manageable workouts and create a routine that fits your lifestyle. Consistency isn’t about being perfect, it’s about showing up more often than not. Even the most disciplined of people struggle sometimes, falling off doesn’t mean failure it’s just means you are human.
Tip: Track your progress, celebrate small wins like improved endurance or strength, build your gym habits. Start small 2-3 days a week as its more sustainable than 6! Even for 15/20 minutes let the habit grow with you.
Celebrate your consistency not just physical changes!
You could consider working with a personal trainer like Gomez or even a friend.
Final Thoughts Everyone starts somewhere, and the most important step is showing up. With time, patience, and the right mindset, the gym will go from intimidating to empowering you with confidence. Remember, every expert was once a beginner.
Bonus Tip: Bring a workout buddy to make the experience more fun and less stress. I found that having someone to workout with is more fun, let alone boosted my confidence and made me want to train more and more.
Book Your Gym INDUCTION
Gym Induction Summary
A gym induction is a guided introduction to the gym with a personal trainer, designed to help new members feel safe, confident, and prepared. I find if you book with a private PT you’ll be better off than booking in with a commercial gym PT.
During the induction, a trainer will show you how to use the equipment properly, explain safety procedures, and discuss your fitness goals and hopefully give you a tailored plan. You’ll receive personalized guidance based on your experience level, any medical considerations, and the results you want to achieve.
The induction often includes technique demonstrations, beginner workout suggestions, and time to ask any questions. By the end, you’ll be ready to train! You will feel more comfortable starting your fitness journey which is what most trainers should want. Results driven business!
“I’m glad i started”