Back in my gym ownership days, I used to say that if I opened a bar instead of a gym, I’d have no trouble getting all of my friends to come. But instead of serving up beer and nachos, I was asking them to try a fitness class.
Oh, the humanity.
Judging from their reactions, asking people to work out is apparently worse than asking them to help you move. And that usually includes beer.
There’s a glaring reason that it’s like pulling teeth to get my friends to work out: Working out is work and I’m asking them to work. Yes, there’s a reward and a reason for doing it, BUT IT'S WORK.
The thing is though, my friends are cool. They’re not afraid of sweat or effort, so what’s the big deal?
Then I realized the not-so-glaring reason: It’s intimidating.
Some of my friends are social butterflies who could walk into any room and strike up a conversation. But what about my introvert friends who want to improve their health, but are terrified by the idea of walking into a room of strangers?
It can be intimidating for almost anyone to walk into a room full of people they don't know. Throw in a bunch of equipment and a workout, and you've got a recipe for maximum intimidation. I mean, if my own friends were hesitant, imagine how complete strangers would feel.
If you're intimidated, you're not alone.
Some form of “I’m intimidated” is the most common thing we hear from new people at the gym. They have the best intentions and truly want to make a change, but they let the fear win and never sometimes never even walk through the door. As a result, they miss the chance to see that we've all had a “day one,” and that we’re here to guide them through theirs.
So, this is an open letter to anyone who has ever wanted to improve their health through fitness in a group class atmosphere, but might be absolutely terrified of starting.
If that's you, I know it's not because you’re afraid to put in the work. Instead, you just might be intimidated by the idea of a room full of strangers who you assume are judging you, or your body or the way you move.
First, I want you to know that we - your coaches and community of members - understand that fear. We all know it because we've felt it ourselves, and see it in a new person’s nervous eyes when they come through the doors for the first time. You might be thinking, 'What do I do? I don’t want to mess this up. I’m scared.'
You Can Do This. Here’s How.
Here are three suggestions for overcoming your intimidation:
- Whether you’re in Westfield, Indiana or somewhere else in the world, find a place where you feel like you fit in. At Legacy Athletics, our community is comprised of all shapes, colors, jeans sizes and wine preferences. We like it that way. One of the most consistent compliments we receive is about how “judgement-free” our coaches and members are. Never let yourself feel like an outsider. Being comfortable is key.
- Never be afraid to ask questions. Even tons of questions. "I’ve never done this before… Can you help me? What can I expect? What should I wear? Do you have an accountability partner program? I don’t want to look like the Incredible Hulk or one of those super-skinny models that need to eat a cheeseburger, just somewhere in between. What should I do?" No question is a stupid question and your gym should be understanding of your need to get all the info.
- Be willing to take a chance on you. Intimidation is an interesting thing: You can let it control you or you can take control of it. You can let it stand in the way of a great opportunity, a healthier body, a happier lifestyle, etc. Or you can rise above it and blow your own mind.
“Trying something new is scary. But you know what’s scarier? Regret.”
We’ll see you in class.
