Going to a gym can be intimidating, there’s a lot of strange machines, equipment, cliques and rules that regulars already know. You’re not the only one, many people feel anxiety about starting a new gym and that’s why a lot of people never end up going there. If you are having body issues then it may make it even harder for you to be surrounded by fit people.

It’s not a very good reason to avoid exercise and yet that’s exactly why some people do. You need to go to the gym and you shouldn’t feel embarrassed to do so. The thing you need to realize is that everyone has been in your position before, nobody is perfect and no one was born with a perfect body. If you see fit people in the gym it’s because they have worked really hard to get that body. There are many things you can do in order to overcome the obstacles of hating the gym.

1. Exercise Outside

If you are out of shape and feel too embarrassed to go to the gym, then you can start by working out in the open air. You can start with running, biking or even rollerblading. You can even go riding at night if you prefer because there are fewer people out. It’s baby steps but it’s something you can try to do before you attempt to go to the gym.

2. Bring The Gym To The Comfort Of Your Home

You can find used gym equipment on various websites such as Amazon or Craigslist. There are lots of great deals on equipment that’s hardly been used. A great weight bench and plates can be purchased for less than $100. You can find motivation and comfort right in your home and there are no worries about people watching you while you workout.

3. Select An Appropriate Gym

Now it’s time to choose the best gym that is appropriate for what you need and what you want. If you are looking for classes or just equipment than you need to find the gym that suits you best. You will want it to be close to home so that it’s convenient for you to go anytime. If you still worry about the people around you then you can find gyms that are for women only and suit your own weight loss purposes.

4. Avoid Peak Workout Times

Now that you are in the gym atmosphere you want to avoid the peak hours, the times when most people pick to workout. If you don’t like to workout with a lot of people around you then you need to go at odd hours of the time. The people that work there will know the times to come when it’s the slowest. Avoid the peak hours until you become more comfortable with the gym atmosphere.