Trainer, Despite Personal Shyness in Gym, Offers Five Strategies for Conquering Gym Anxiety
Starting a new fitness class can be daunting for beginners, especially when it comes to group workouts. But fear not, for there are several strategies to help diminish fitness class anxiety and encourage positive engagement.
Joe Williams, studio manager at F45 and FS8 Oxford Circus in London, UK, shares his insights on overcoming anxiety in group fitness classes. Williams admits that he too felt self-conscious in new group fitness classes, but through preparation and a growth mindset, he has come to enjoy the experience.
One of the key tips Williams suggests is to prepare ahead. Familiarize yourself with the studio, class format, and equipment by visiting or researching online. Having a plan in place, such as writing down your workout steps or goals, can also reduce uncertainty.
Another strategy is to use grounding or mindfulness techniques before and during class to calm nerves. Practicing breathing or awareness exercises can help centre oneself and focus on the task at hand.
Exercising with a friend can provide extra support and reduce feelings of isolation. Williams also recommends attending beginner-friendly classes or workouts to avoid overwhelming challenges. For those who prefer a more personalised approach, working with a personal trainer can offer guidance on form and build confidence.
Starting with low-pressure, calming group activities like yoga or tai chi that emphasize breathing and mindfulness may also help manage anxiety in a group setting.
Participants should focus on their own form and spiking heart rate during group fitness classes, not on others. The class coach is there to motivate, guide, and make the participant feel welcome. Arriving early to ask the trainer any questions about exercises is beneficial.
Group fitness classes can feel intimidating due to regular attendees who instinctively know the routine. However, Williams suggests saying "hello" to the person next to you in a group fitness class to ease nervousness and potentially make a new friend. Introducing oneself to the class coach can help receive extra attention and care.
In a group fitness class, asking questions is encouraged and can help ensure correct form and progression. Nobody is looking at what participants are doing or how fast they are going. At F45 group classes, people of different abilities and fitness levels come together.
Williams encourages embracing a growth mindset during group fitness classes, as physical and mental strength will improve with each class. He also suggests that preparation and forethought can help manage fitness class anxiety.
Working out with a friend or making a new one can improve the fitness class experience. If you're a beginner, informing the class coach of your first-time status can help them provide extra support.
In conclusion, these strategies collectively create a structured, supportive environment that diminishes fitness class anxiety and encourages positive engagement in group workouts. So, take the leap and embrace the fitness journey – you've got this!
- Start by familiarizing yourself with the studio and class format ahead of time, as well as researching online or visiting the studio, to reduce anxiety and prepare for the group fitness class.
- Practicing grounding or mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing or awareness techniques, before and during the class can help calm nerves and focus on the task at hand.
- Exercising with a friend or attending a beginner-friendly class can provide additional support and alleviate feelings of isolation.
- Introducing oneself to the class coach can help receive extra attention and support, as well as asking questions about forms or exercises during the class.
