How to be your most confident self in the gym.

At times, the gym can be a daunting place. Maybe you’re not too sure what you’re doing when you get there or you just feel slightly out of your comfort zone. However, the gym really is for everyone and every BODY. It is a safe place if you make it one.

Here are six things I employ in order to feel my most confident self in the gym.

Plan.
Before you get to the gym, plan what you are going to do. Write it in notes on your phone, or on a piece of paper so you won’t forget. This helps avoid drifting. I find myself feeling much more confident in the gym when I know exactly what I’ve got to do. This way I’m not left wondering what is next.

Get to know the gym.
If it’s a gym that is new to you, get to know it before you begin your workout. Take a walk around and see where everything/what is there. This way you’ll know exactly where to head for each exercise, but also, if anything is missing you can make some adaptations/changes whilst warming up.

Give yourself time.
Don’t rush yourself whilst you’re there and make sure you have allotted plenty of time to get your session done. I find this helps prevent me from rushing, so I can make the most of the workout, but it also means I have allowed time to find out where everything is. If you have lots of different exercises, you may have to wait for certain equipment to become available, so factor in extra time for this.

Dress for you.
Whenever I go to the gym I want to feel confident but also comfortable. Therefore, dressing correctly for me is so important. Some people prefer tight fitting clothing so there is less to get in the way, whereas others prefer loose fitting clothing as it’s more comfortable for them. I personally prefer tighter clothing so it doesn’t distract me or make me overheat! The number one priority is that whatever you’re wearing, you feel confident in it!

Headphones.
For me, headphones are a must at the gym. Less so for the entertainment, and more for the vibe they give off. Don’t get me wrong, having the right tunes pumping gets me in the mood for the gym, but it also allows me to get in my zone and shut off from everybody else. Headphones essentially act as a metaphor for ‘don’t talk to me’. It also helps prevent people chatting to you when you don’t want them to.

*remember to charge them, as I have made this mistake many many times.

Be confident.
Most importantly, remember, you belong there! The gym is for every BODY, so go workout and embrace it. People are only looking at you as much as you think they are. In reality, everyone is more focused on their own session ahead, and they do not care what you are doing or what you look like. The gym can be a safe place for everyone, just be confident in what you’re doing by employing the tips above.