Getting a gym membership today and I’m already anxious and embarrassed

[clault]

@joanie59 I had the same fear when I got my first gym membership a few years ago. But, the people behind the desk were super nice and everyone else ignored me on the tour. After doing it, my fear of going back to work out went away. Still had a few concerns about whether it was awkward to use a treadmill next to someone, but it all worked out.

The easiest thing might be to remember that there are literally no stakes here. You don’t know anyone at the gym, and you’ll never see the again. If the staff is rude when you ask for a tour, just don’t buy a membership and go somewhere else. They’re the ones who lose by driving away a customer.

 

[acer621]

@joanie59 I'm saying this very gently, but if the idea of asking an employee at a gym a question about that gym is this terrifying for you, perhaps speaking with a therapist should be your actual first step.

 

[joanie59]

@acer621 I know :/ The gym fear mainly comes from the idea that I’m going to be made fun of no matter what i do, cause i used to be the fat kid and i’m full of bad fitness related memories. Therapist is next haha

 

[campingles]

@joanie59 I’m in therapy for something similar (overly critical of myself) and recommend something called a cbt thought record. If you google it you should get some results, I find it very help in moments like these!

 

[dawn16]

@joanie59 Maybe write down what you want to say and rehearse before going in? I agree that this is something you really need to speak to a therapist about. I know it’s easier said than done but you should not care what random strangers think of you signing up for the gym.

 

[rosepenny]

@joanie59 There will be beginners starting all the time, you won’t be alone in that! You’re exactly what they want: a new customer.