10 Easy Ways to Feel More Confident at the Gym

10 Easy Ways to Boost Your Confidence at the Gym

1. Don’t worry about anyone else

Everyone at the gym is on their own self improvement journey. But 9 times out of 10, most people are way more concerned with looking at themselves in the mirror than they are with what you’re doing. Don’t worry too much about others!

2. Have a plan

Think about what you’re going to do before you get there. Wandering around unsure of what to do next is a recipe for feeling insecure!Do you want to train a specific part of your body or movement pattern? Look up exercises you can do beforehand, and write them down in your phone. Save form videos on Instagram so you can easily find them. Remember to always start with compound (multijoint) movements first, and go from there.

3. Look good, feel good

You know that feeling you get when put on a damn cute outfit, and you feel like you can take on the world? Do that with your gym attire too! In my opinion, it’s worth the investment in quality clothes that make you feel good. Feeling confident in an outfit also gives you energy to perform better!

4. Make a playlist

This goes hand in hand with planning ahead - when your favorite songs are playing you just feel better and more energized to get after your workout! Plus you don’t have to spend time skipping songs or listening to unwanted ads.

5. Find a space you feel comfortable in, and do your workout there

If you’re new to working out in a large gym, find yourself a corner and claim it! I used to do this when I first started out too. I know how it feels to be insecure working out in front of others. Just grab whatever equipment you need, and take it over there. Finding your own space will allow you to feel more comfortable watching form videos, performing the exercise and even filming yourself! Eventually you will be out on the floor with the best of them, girl!

6. Dumbbells before barbells

Anything you can do with a barbell, you can do with a dumbbell. I prefer starting with DBs because it allows you to move more freely through your range of motion. If you’re new to exercise, there is less risk injury. Dumbbells also allow you to practice a movement pattern and get good at it before progressing to the barbell.

7. Don’t be afraid to ask for help

People are nicer than you think! Don’t feel embarrassed to ask someone for help, 99.9% of the crowd will be more than happy to help you. You can also ask the gym staff - it’s their job to assist! No one will think any less of you, I promise!

8. Hire a trainer to teach you the basics

Invest in yourself, and get a few sessions with a professional! Don’t be afraid to interview a few trainers to find the right person for you! They can guide you around the fitness floor, show you how the machines work and how to adjust them to fit your needs. More importantly, a trainer can teach you movement patterns that you will be using throughout your exercise career. Hiring a professional is invaluable!

9. Go with a friend

There is strength in numbers! If you feel insecure working out alone, ask a friend to join you! Most gyms offer a free pass for the first visit, so even if they aren’t a member, you can go together at least once!

10. Shoulders back and down

The gym is really no different than any other setting. Don’t forget to hold your shoulders back & keep your chin up! Also, shoulders back & down is a great mental cue for most exercises ;)