Gyms can be an intimidating place. It’s one of the reasons why people don’t like going. They’re full of large machinery that can crush you and full of bodybuilders that can judge you.
It is estimated that £500 million is wasted in unused gym memberships each year in the UK. But it’s not just money it’s costing us. It can be a toll on our mental health too. A recent poll found that we are most self-conscious when we are in the gym.
Why do we put ourselves through this experience? One reason is peer pressure; or to be more accurate: public pressure. We tend to follow the crowd particularly in January and sign up for a gym membership because it’s the best way to get fit…or so we think. And that’s the thing. We don’t have to go to the gym to be fit. In fact, in many cases we can be fitter without it. There are plenty of things to do to keep fit. Join a sports club, dance team, or fitness boot camps.
But if you want to use gym facilities, how do you get over gymtimidation? Well you could get a personal trainer to show you the ropes. You’ll get know how to use the machines and knowing someone there you’ll feel more welcomed. Or you could go with a friend; a perturbation shared is a perturbation halved.
But even after trying these we may not enjoy the gym experience. So instead of trying to feel at home in the gym, you can bring the gym to your home. There are so many benefits of working out at home. For a start there are no monthly fees and sets of dumbbells, resistance bands, and push up bars come at a reasonable price compared to a year’s gym memberships.
Not only can you save money but you can save time. A workout, shower, and post exercise meal at can be done in the same time it takes to go to the gym and back.
Furthermore, there is no reason to be self-conscious at home. No one is looking at you (apart from your pet if you have one!). You’re in your own house so there is no need to wear make-up or fancy gym gear. You can literally work out in your PJs if that’s what you feel like.
But you should never ever feel self-conscious when working out. Exercise is self-improvement no matter what level of fitness you are. So, if you are a body builder or a complete beginner. Remember we all have to start somewhere; and the home can be the perfect place.
Fitness in Your 30s 