Regular exercise can make a dramatic difference in both your health and your overall quality of life. But actually getting to the gym can be a challenge. If you’re struggling with following through on your resolve to
get fit, the odds are good that one of these issues could be to blame.
- They Feel Self-Conscious.
Working out in public can be intimidating, especially for people who have not been actively pursuing their personal fitness for quite some time. But there’s no reason to let this insecurity stop you from becoming a better you. Many gyms have smaller rooms, private spaces, or even beginners-only classes that can help you get started and build a solid foundation of confidence that will allow you to feel more comfortable in your own skin. And remember — everyone at the gym has their own personal struggles and their own exercise to focus on, so no one will be judging!
- They Worry About Injury.
Especially for anyone who has suffered an injury in the past, the risks of working out can seem especially pertinent and intimidating. However, studies have shown that, in the long term, staying active is the best thing you can do to reduce your risk of serious injuries. If you are still at high risk of re-aggravating an old injury, we recommend seeking out low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, or yoga.
- They Are Unsure of How to Use the Machines.
Modern technology has given us some incredible workout equipment capable of extreme precision in bodybuilding. However, for anyone new to working out, some machines can appear very overwhelming. The good news is that modern technology has also given us an enormous base of educational materials with the internet, and watching a few good YouTube videos is a great strategy for learning how to use new equipment. Many good gyms also have a trainer on hand who will be happy to answer any questions you have!
- They Don’t Want to Take on the Cost of a Gym Membership.
Gym memberships can be a bit pricey — for anyone on a tight budget, forking over $50+ per month can seem like a big commitment. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that a gym membership is an investment in yourself that will pay dividends in so many ways. If paying for a traditional gym membership is completely out of the question, however, there are still many options available. Most YMCA’s, for example, offer highly affordable prices, and other similar local organizations might also be available, depending on where you live.
- They’re Simply Procrastinating.
This is a common problem — in fact, many gyms make a large portion of their profits simply because people sign up for a membership and then never actually go! If this describes you, then we recommend seeking out some inspiration. This recent Top Fitness Magazine article, for example, offers a straightforward set of weight loss tips for people who are extremely busy — and you can find lots of other good resources by browsing through our other articles, available for free.