Gym anxiety is common when you first start working out somewhere new.
If you’re a student, you might also be afraid of gym class at school.
If you have social anxiety, you might be at a higher risk.
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What Triggers Gym Anxiety?
Many aspects of a typical gym or physical education class are intimidating enough for the average person.
These could include:
People withsocial anxietymay be more likely to experience gym anxiety.
Some reasons that were commonly cited included:
Specific areas of the gym can be intimidating to some.
“Everyone is staring at me.
They must think I’m fat and out of shape.”
“I feel so anxious, I can’t get through this workout.”
“What am I doing here?
I don’t belong here, I can’t do this.”
“Everyone is focused on themselves and their own workout.”
“I can do this.
Keep counting the reps and do my best.”
“I made a goal to get in better shape.
I am working toward that goal.”
Challenging and changing those thoughts to be more positive or helpful can help make you feel better.
Start by researching gyms and perhaps walking or driving past them.
Next, try going into the gym and asking for a tour.
If it’s the locker room that’s triggering your gym anxiety, planning ahead can help.
Instead of changing at the gym, arrive at your workout already dressed for your workout.
Afterward, you might throw a jacket on over your gym clothes and head home to shower and change.
Gradual Exposure
Numerous studies have shown the effectiveness that exercise can have on alleviating anxiety.
Many classes and gyms are now streaming classes online.
Other ideas include walking, running, cycling, or swimming.
Anything that gets your body moving and your heart pumping can count as exercise!
Anxiety About Gym Class
Anxiety at the gym is not limited to adults.
Can Exercise Help With Anxiety?
The good news is thatexercise can help relieve anxietyand may even help protect against future anxiety.
Exercise can be great for anxiety for several reasons.
It can decrease stress hormones, improve confidence, and help create a buffer against stress.
But when added to these traditional treatments, there may be some added benefit.
Anxiety is a treatable condition.
Your doctor may recommend therapy, medication, or a combination of the two.
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