Walking into a gym for the first time can be a very scary experience, especially if it’s your first time exercising in front of other people or trying to get fit.
However, once I started pushing myself to go to the gym, it got easier and easier- especially when I found a few ways to improve my confidence. In fact, I now enjoy my trips to the gym, and it gives me an active way to spend my time when I don’t want to go swimming.
If you want to go to your local gym, but you’re nervous about going for the first time- it doesn’t have to be a nerve-wracking experience!
In this blog post, I’ve put together a guide to improving your confidence at the gym + 5 top tips to help you feel a bit more comfortable exercising in a new environment
Confidence at the gym
For me, using the gym is all about confidence!
It took a lot of time for me to build up enough confidence to go to the gym, and then even more confidence to use weights or machines (instead of just the exercise bike). You might feel nervous because you struggle with body confidence, or you might just worry about not being able to use everything properly.
For me, it was a combination of both. I felt uncomfortable going to the gym as I often feel a bit self-conscious exercising in front of other people- I think everyone does!
I also worried I wouldn’t be able to use the machines or weights properly. As a complete gym newbie, I didn’t want to feel silly if I didn’t do it right.
By understanding the root of my issues, I managed to find a few ways to build up my confidence. I created a plan and I found a couple of ways to improve my body confidence and boost my self-esteem.
It took a little while, but I’m now confident enough to do a basic gym routine in front of other people- and I love investing in my health!
My top tips to improve your confidence at the gym
As a self-conscious, first-time gym user, I’ve put together my simple top tips to improve your confidence at the gym.
1. Start small
If you’re worried about gymtimidation, one of my top tips is to start small.
I started using the exercise bike first to build up my energy and get active, and then I moved on to the machines. I used each machine without any weight first, to make sure I understood exactly how to use it. There are also instructions on each machine, to help you out.
From there, I’ve introduced a few free weight exercises into my routine, but it’s all a work in progress.
Starting small will help you to create a fitness routine that works for you.
You don’t have to try out everything at once! Start with something that is more comfortable for you, such as using the treadmill, and then add in more exercises as and when you feel ready.
2. Get the right gear
If you want to improve your confidence at the gym, it’s a good idea to get the right gear so that you feel completely comfortable from day one.
This might just mean getting a pair of shorts or finding a good pair of trainers.
If you’re not sure whether you’ll keep up with your fitness routine, don’t spend a lot of money- just get a few basics to feel comfortable during your first gym session.
3. Go with a friend
If you’re feeling nervous about going to the gym, my top tip would be to go with someone else.
You might be nervous about physically walking into the gym, so having someone to chat to can put you at ease and help you feel less “watched”.
Trust me, no one is watching you- but if you’re worried about it, taking someone with you is the perfect solution.
You and your friend can boost each other’s confidence- and it’s even better if that person knows their way around, to make you feel a bit more comfortable.
4. Choose the right routine for you
It’s so important to choose the right routine for you when it comes to health and fitness– otherwise, you’ll never stick to it.
If you want to lose weight or just be a bit more active, you could create a simple cardio routine. Or if you want to work on individual areas, you could create a basic routine that covers each area in turn.
You could research an easy routine online or ask for help. My boyfriend put together a simple gym routine for me, which was super helpful.
If you choose the right routine for you, it’ll be much easier to stay consistent. At the end of the day, you need to enjoy yourself if you want to stick to healthy habits.
5. Remember- everyone is at a different level!
I know what it feels like to walk into the gym and feel like everyone else is much better than you- and much fitter, too.
But that’s just not true!
When you actually take a look around, there are lots of different body types, shapes, sizes and levels using the equipment. I use my local University gym, as anyone is welcome to use it. There are young people, students, older people, beginners, personal trainers and people that look like they live at the gym.
If you want to improve your confidence at the gym, just try to remember that everyone is at a different level- and no one is judging you.
What are your top tips for a gym newbie? How do you improve your confidence at the gym? Do you have any tips for starting a new gym routine?
Let me know all your thoughts in the comments below 🙂
Happy reading x
Not-So-Modern Girl 
I just joined a new gym at the end of January so I was nervous. Going with a friend at times when I knew it was quiet helped.
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I think finding a time when it is quiet is so important. I get what you mean, I was so nervous the first time! Luckily at my gym, everyone seems to be focused on themselves- and there are people at lots of different levels!
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Getting a gym introduction helps familiarise yourself with the machines, which can help settle anxieties about embarrassing yourself about using them wrong. Going during it’s quieter times can help you get used to the gym too
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A gym introduction is a great idea! Even just getting a friend to show you the ropes 🙂
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I used to go to the gym when I was a teenager until I was about 21 and I had absolutely no fear – I didn’t care who was there, who was watching, anything! I think things would be different if I went now though. These are great tips 🙂
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That’s great Jenny! Yes I understand, it can be nerve-wracking. It’s definitely a case of building up your confidence 🙂 x
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I’m a regular gym goer and find that no one is interested in you. They’re only interested in their own training. Good tips here for new gym goers.
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So true! Thank you Rachel x
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I got a small space to teach dance to kids in a gym. I noticed there are many people who are conscious regarding their bodies and unsure about how to start. You have written about a very important topic and your suggestions are on point.
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Thank you so much. Yes, I think many people get self-conscious- but I would never judge anyone else in the gym, so you have to realise others feel the same 🙂 thank you for commenting x
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I have zero confidence in any gym setting as sometimes my anxiety just gets the better of me (which is why I workout at home). I appreciate these tips though as they have some really good practical applications; I may be able to give going to the gym another go (maybe, haha)!
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I completely understand! Sometimes working out at home is a great choice anyway 🙂 I hope you enjoy it if you give it a go. It’s all about building up your confidence over a period of time. If you want to go, you’ll get there 🙂 x
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I’ve literally just been thinking about joining the gym so this is perfect! I used to go years ago but the thought of going now is a bit daunting so this has come at the perfect time!
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I completely understand- I’d never even stepped foot in a gym until last year, so I was the same. I’m sure you can do it! Thank you Katherine 🙂
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The first time I went to the gym, I was together with my daughter which made it much less daunting
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I think going with someone else is definitely a great way to feel more comfortable x
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Cool tips! I need to use some of these. I used to enjoy working out in the gym. But now not anymore. I need to get back on track. Thank you for sharing.
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Thank you Fadima 🙂 I hope you enjoy getting back into a routine x
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It’s so important to remember that everyone that goes to the gym is on a different fitness level. I always used to think I was weak compared to everyone else! x
Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk
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Exactly! Everyone is a different level with a different goal in mind- and that’s okay 🙂 thank you for commenting x
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These are such great tips! I normally work out at home because I never really felt confident at the gym, but these are great tips to implement for the future!
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Thank you! I was exactly the same. I appreciate your comment 🙂
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Love those simple tips! I’ve always been super uncomfortable going to a gym, even being invited by friends, and instead opted to work at home. Now I’ve made the shift to go with my husband, but sometimes what I’ve had to deal with is people trying to impress me as they get close to where I am (which makes me super uncomfortable, distance right? haha) or talking on the cell phone instead of opting to go outside. Going to the gym is important for me and my sacred time to disconnect.
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Thank you! I completely understand, I never thought I’d feel comfortable enough to work out at the gym. My boyfriend really helped me too 🙂 eurgh I hate that! Or when they sit on the machines playing on their phone when you’re waiting for a turn… it’s such an important time for me too, to switch off from the world. Thank you for commenting x
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Great post. Taking small steps and mastering them will definitely boost the confidence. All the points are also true. Thanks for reminding.
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Thank you! 🙂
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Thanks for sharing thos tips.
I invite you to visit my last post. Have a good week!
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These are all very useful tips! For me going with someone, having a great playlist that pumps you up and starting small were what helped more x
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Thank you! I think a great playlist is a must 🙂
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This is actually me! I really worry all of these things, but working out with a friend step up the game. Thanks for sharing!
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That’s great 🙂 Thank you for reading and commenting x
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Great Post Eleanor 😊 I know I felt intimidated when I first went to a ‘proper’ gym last year during my training for the Great North Run. But I just concentrated on getting my run done or going for a swim.. Although even doing that still made me feel like people were watching me! 😂🤗
I’m not a gym goer, I much prefer just running outside by myself or with others! Xo
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Thank you for reading Sarah! I agree, it can be hard to get over that initial intimidation. I like swimming because I don’t wear my glasses- if anyone is staring at me, I have no idea haha
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Great ideas, and I know this feeling because I went through the moments. Starting small is a good step. I did some of these to overcome it.
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Thank you! Starting small is always a great way to overcome confidence issues x
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Great post filled with excellent tips. I used to go to the gym until the lockdown happened. I haven’t been since. Using a good playlist, podcasts or audiobook have helped me when I go to the gym. Thank you for sharing your tips.
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Thank you! I think a good playlist is key 🙂 thank you for your comment x
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These are great tips! I have equipment at home, but when I first started going to the gym, they offered a tour for how to properly use the machines. That definitely helped with confidence. Thanks for sharing!
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Thank you! That’s a great idea, I didn’t actually do that but a lot of people have recommended it 🙂 I’m glad you managed to get some confidence x
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Great tips! I haven’t been to the gym in a couple of years, but really want to get back into the routine this year, so I’ll definitely keep these in mind. Thanks for sharing!
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Thank you! I hope you get into a new routine, I appreciate the comment x
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Great post. Definitely everyone is at a different level. Enjoyed reading. 🤗
Pastor Natalie (Examine This Moment)
Letstakeamoment.com
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Thank you! Yes, I think it’s important to remember that x
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These are some really great tips to help build confidence when going to the gym. This is really helpful. Thank you for sharing your suggestions.
Lauren x
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Thank you 🙂
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My top tip would be to remember that everyone is there focusing on themselves and not looking at others! most people are too busy thinking about their workout or on their phone to notice others!
Corinne x
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Yes! That’s so true, I always get self-conscious but I would never judge anyone else, so you have to accept that they feel the same about you 🙂 thank you for sharing x
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What a helpful post! I know many people who struggle with this and this is so straightforward with some great tips!
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Thank you Andrea 🙂
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WOW! This is hugely helpful for someone like me who is new to the gym. I’ve always wanted to exercise, and a friend suggested I try a gym. He also advised me to go with a friend because, as an introvert, I am uncomfortable being watched. Thanks so much for sharing this, Eleanor 😀
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Thank you so much for sharing Merry! I agree, it can help to go with someone. Just having a few ideas in your head can really ease you into a new gym routine x
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These are all great tips especially as I want to get back into the gym. Thank you for sharing.
Lauren – bournemouthgirl
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Thank you Lauren 🙂 x
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