Whether you have yet to join a gym or you’ve just started out, this post is for you.

I’ve heard time and time again that some people’s number one reason for not starting the gym is because they’re too anxious, scared or worried of what other people will think of them. This is commonly known as gym anxiety, and we have all been there. Everyone starts somewhere. Even the intense gym-goers were once beginners, feeling the same way as you do right now.

But, how do you defeat this gym anxiety? It can be hard to overcome, like any form of anxiety. What I can say is that it does get easier the more you do it, again, like anything. Here’s my top suggestions for starting the gym that can help you move into the new lifestyle more seamlessly:

1. On your first day, simply go and look around the gym. You can even ask a PT or gym manager to give you a quick tour. However, I know how awkward this can be, especially if you don’t want to stand out anymore than you think you do. Locate the toilets and changing rooms, the cardio area, fixed resistance machines and free weights.
2. Remember: no one is looking at you! The best thing about going to the gym is that everyone is too caught up in their own head to focus on, let alone judge, anyone else. People are focusing on their music blasting through their headphones, their breath-work during sets, or even counting rest time. Trust me, no one is staring at you, even if you think they are.
3. On your first day, set yourself up on the treadmill, hopefully one that is looking out to the rest of the gym floor. Some treadmills can be difficult to use, but they are ultimately the easiest machine to use! Set a slow walking pace and just get a feel of being back in the gym.
4. Do this for the first 3-4 sessions at the gym. Familiarise yourself with leaving home, entering the gym (if there is a special QR code to use to enter the gym etc.), and then leaving the gym.
5. Start small. If you haven’t been to the gym before, or it has been a long time since you have, don’t make yourself go every day. Start with 3-4 sessions a week, or less if you don’t have the time. If you go too hard to start with, you may be hit with DOMS or lack of motivation as you are so tired from the new form of exercise.
6. At the same time, usher in a sense of self-discipline. I have heard of countless stories of people going once or twice, them dropping off completely! Work out which days of the week suit you best for a gym session, and stick to those timings. Your body and mind will them develop this into a habit.
7. Buy yourself some new gym outfits. Looking cute in the gym is my number one tip for gym motivation. If it makes you feel better, don’t hesitate in putting on that little bit of mascara and concealer. Plus, there’s a chance you’ll develop a gym crush! You don’t have to gym on the GymShark trend – just wear whatever makes you feel comfortable but confident.
8. Learn proper form. There are many ways to do this. Simply watching other people using machines before you try them out works wonders. Or ask a manager for some advice. Or even when you’re not at the gym, you can look up YouTube videos! This goes a long way in preventing injuries and adding confidence to yourself in the gym environment.
9. Make sure you’re eating properly. Fuel your body before and after a gym session, no matter how small. Particularly if you’re just starting out, it’ll be a shock to your body if you don’t fuel yourself correctly. Invest your time in researching the right foods to be eating and get into a routine of refueling.
10. Listen to your body. I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again. If you’ve been going consistently to the gym for a week or so, your body may be feeling sore and overworked. Listen to these signals and give your body the rest it’s demanding!

Did any of these tips help you? Let me know in the comments below!