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Anxiety about the gym

LizzieBarker
LizzieBarker
Does anyone else have this problem? Have you found any ways of getting past it?

I used to be extremely addicted to exercise, I'd keep going until I'd practically pass out. While I was getting myself sorted out though, I went completely cold turkey. I've been back since with other people, but I'm too scared to go on my own. I'm worried I'm not going to know when I've done enough, and worried I might pass out or do something embarrassing. I'm also worried that I'm so unfit, I don't want people to stare at me as I struggle to run half a mile.

Recently my gym buddy can't go any more so I'm all on my own when it comes to going to the gym. Anyone got any tips on how I can encourage myself to go? And how I can stop some of this anxiety somewhat?
kathywonders
kathywonders
Does your gym have staff who could make you a training programme. It might be a good idea to follow a balanced workout programme where you just follow the weights and repetitions give by the trainer.

It would be great if you could find exercise a source of enjoyment and well being. Think about other options apart from gym training. (Im always keen to suggest yoga, climbing and rowing - but I know not everybody has access to those) How about Nordic walking outdoors? I love spotting spring flowers, hares and squirrels when Im out.

Take it easy!
deleted_user
deleted_user
I can relate. I used to exercise a lot for hours each day at the gym and was a bit obsessed. Then I stopped going for about 6 months and when I decided to go back there a few months ago I used to have anxiety attacks about going- thinking that everyone noticed I'd put on weight, that everyone was watching me and judging. But despite having these thoughts I forced myself to keep going and now I don t worry so much about everyone else and go there for myself to do my workout then leave. Most people are more worried about what they are doing and focused on their own workout. In relation to worrying that you will not be able to exercise moderately, I still find that an issue but at the moment I'm starting with allowing myself to have one rest day a week, then I will reduce it to going every second day.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Also if you are worried that you are unfit, maybe you could start by doing intervals of walking then running to build up your fitness. I'm doing that because Ian trying to build up my fitness.
ann54
ann54
I was also obsessed with the gym, would go for hours every day, then I had to stop. I don't go to the gym anymore as I know I would fall back into doing to much so I walk and garden, yard work and such. those things have helped me mentally more then the gym ever did. I still do to much some days and my body pays for it but it is contained. I like the idea of having a trainer set you up with a plan, tell him/her that you can only be there a hour and stick to the plan. it isn't easy and you can get caught up again, but you don't want to fall back to the trap. I was always self conscious but eventually realized the other people were only thinking and focused on themselves and those that weren't were not worth my anxiety, ignorant people. do you have other forms of exercise you like to do besides the gym, ones that can get you outside? best of luck