SO LET'S TALK ABOUT “GYM ANXIETY”

Anyone who uses/used a gym before will likely know what I’m referring to here. That feeling of self doubt? Constantly looking around to see if other people are watching you as you try to master a new exercise / movement? Getting odd looks off people as you set up a camera to try to record and analyse each set to set yourself goals of where to improve for next time.

I could go on.

The thing is that these feelings are absolutely NORMAL. 

Regardless of one’s level/experience in the gym this can rise as an issue and it’s nothing to be ashamed/embarrassed about. So to be completely transparent this is something I am subject to on a daily basis. Especially when transitioning to new training methods such as new movements, intensities, etc. 

So how does one overcome this fear, insecurity, or embarrassment, they seem to be subject to while on the gym floor? There are thankfully, numerous solutions to this issue, it is up to you however; on how you choose to implement these strategies.

First things first; remember why you started. Whether people choose to acknowledge this or not, there usually is a turning point in one's life whereby they have decided to start using the gym in the first place. Whether this be in regard to health, confidence, relationships, or even sport; the rule still stands. Where do you hold more value? Are you going to let what other people might be thinking/saying as you get through your session stand in the way of your goals? Hold yourself accountable to your goals.

 “Get busy watering your own grass so as not to notice whether it's greener elsewhere.” - Karon Waddell.

So we’ve done some thinking and rattled our brain to a certain degree as to why we are here; why we put aside time regardless of our busy schedules each week to train. As we reflect on this; we might notice that we must hold a certain amount of value towards our training? Our training and the effects and feelings it elicits upon us is something we hold in high regard. Are we going to let some strangers' opinions dismantle this simple pleasure? Life is way too short for this mindset, our time is invaluable, spend it working on yourself - not what others might think of you.

“Small minds discuss people, average minds discuss events, great minds discuss ideas.” - Eleanor Roosevelt

My final point; it’s all in your head. So you’re probably wondering why I might suggest such a bold comment, as you start to question what you’ve read so far. I say this due to people’s imagination getting the better of them when outside of their comfort zones. Realistically the person you've spotted casually glancing in your direction is simply checking if the machine you’re using was free; or a number of other similar reasons.

The reality is; Everyone around you In the gym is there for one soul purpose.

TO WORK ON THEMSELVES.

In the gym it’s You vs. You - day in, day out. If you're in the gym for other reasons, you’re in the wrong place.

Here is a quote I came across recently, which I believe resonates well here.

“We are now faced with the fact that tomorrow is today. We are confronted with the fierce urgency of now. In this unfolding conundrum of life and history, there "is" such a thing as being too late. This is no time for apathy or complacency. This is a time for vigorous and positive action.” - Martin Luther King Jr.

Lastly, I would also like to clarify that I am not a registered dietician. All advice disclosed here is simply advisory based on my qualifications as a fitness professional and personal experience and knowledge gained working with individuals and helping them reach their goals. The advice given is not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health problem - nor is it intended to replace the advice of a physician. Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health.

I hope someone out there found some of this information useful here, just some food for thought. For any questions in relation to this topic or training, nutrition, etc. or for coaching inquiries simply message me on my business page on instagram @coachedbycashel_ or by email - coachedbycashel@gmail.com