How can i get over intimidation of the gym?

[coachpalmz]

Once you realize that most people are COMPLETELY focused on themselves....you won't care and you'll do your own thing.

[StormerJack]

Hey pal, when i first entered the gym 5-6 months ago i was 353lb and now im 286lb so im still pretty big and i felt the same way as you but now im friends with most of the bodybuilders in my gym even though it took me some time to talk to them. here is my advice to you.


1. Dont worry about lifting small weights to start with, nobody is going to laugh at you because your supposed to start out small, if anything the other guys will laugh at you if your trying to lift above what you should be doing.

2. I waited until there was only 2 guys lifting and then i went over to them and asked if i could watch them so i knew what to do.

[ChickenandYams]

First, good job for going to the gym and taking the step to improve yourself. Don't ever compare yourself to other people. You are not them, and they aren't you. When you start comparing yourself to other people you will always end up disappointed bud. Its all about you in the gym. It doesnt have to be vane or selfish, its just your time to improve you. The best thing you can do is stick it out. You're just out of your comfort zone because you're new and many people in the gym are not. It won't be long you'll be more comfortable and you wont be feeling this way anyhow and you'll be laughing thinking back on how you used to fear it all. It will pass in time. Remember...every person in the gym, huge, fit, buff, fat, skinny or not, all started in the same place. No one walked into the weight room and knew how to do everything. You are JUST like them. Another thing I've learned for you to keep in mind...from my experience 90% of the people in the gym are actually very friendly and easy to talk to. They come off as intimidating because they are focused and there to accomplish a goal, which can require a ferocious, intimidating side of our selves. The big guys may look intimidating, but really I bet they're pretty cool down to earth guys that would surely help you out if you ever needed anything. Of course there are the exceptions, but personally Ive been fortunate to not come across that many. Could be because I stay away from the commercial gyms though too. The only one that is going to hold you back is yourself. Believe in yourself and believe that you can accomplish your goals. Having that kind of attitude will take you a far way. You will learn a lot about yourself and develop characteristics that will carry on into other parts of your life as well - determination, endurance, confidence, patience, work ethic, fortitude, courage, self-efficacy, self-esteem, strength of heart, mind, body, soul. The list goes on. Good luck to you, and enjoy the journey!