Overcoming Gym Anxiety

Walking into a CrossFit gym for the first time can feel like stepping onto another planet. The clanking of weights, the hum of cardio machines, and a myriad of fit folks who know exactly what to do and how to move. Let's face it. It's intimidating.

That anxiety is absolutely real. I felt it walking into my high school gym at age 14. And I 100% felt it when I first slinked through the doors of a CrossFit gym more than a decade ago.

But I have good news. Gym anxiety is something you'll overcome with a little bit of prep and the right mindset. Let's dive in.

1) Educate Yourself Before You Go

One of the biggest triggers of gym anxiety is not knowing what to expect or being afraid you won't know what to do. In these cases, a little research goes a long way. Before you dive in, look up some basic workout routines online or consider asking a friend with CrossFit gym experience to walk you through some exercises. Next, check out the gym's website or social media pages to get some ideas on their coaching style and class structure. With this baseline knowledge, your confidence will surely grow.

2) Meet with the Gym Manager

Ask for help. Put yourself in a setting to ask questions that are important to you. Gym owners love talking to prospective members. Personally, this is my favorite part of owning a CrossFit gym. Meeting new people, building relationships, and discussing health and fitness goals is a ton of fun. Our coaches are passionate about coaching. They derive joy from seeing our members succeed. And we create accountability through friendship and community. Lastly, we were all beginners. We know the nervousness that comes along with trying something new. And we'll help break down those barriers with a quick conversation.

3) Pick the Right Time

CrossFit gyms tend to be less crowded during certain hours of the day (mid-morning or in the evening). If the idea of working out in a packed gym causes panic, schedule your workouts when the gym is less busy.

4) Bring a Workout Buddy

You've heard the phrase "strength in numbers" and when it comes to CrossFit, it's so true! Having a friend by your side can make all the difference. A workout buddy can help you feel more at ease, provide motivation, and even make the experience more enjoyable. I find the latter to be particularly true. I experience less pain when I face tough challenges alongside a friend. We're struggling together, and that makes overcoming obstacles easier. Lastly, you'll both be learning new things at the same time, and that will surely reduce the uneasiness you're feeling about the gym.

5) Remember Why You Started

Whenever gym anxiety starts to creep in, remind yourself of why you’re there. Whether it’s to improve your health, gain strength, or just feel better overall, your reason for starting is more important than any discomfort you might feel. Keep your goals in mind and let them drive you forward.

Gym anxiety is common and it's no joke. But it doesn’t have to keep you from reaching your health and fitness goals. With a little research, asking for some guidance, and focusing on your "why", you can turn the gym into a space where you feel empowered rather than intimidated.

Remember, every time you walk through those doors, you’re investing in your health and well-being, and that’s something to be proud of. With time and persistence, the gym will become just another part of your routine, and you’ll find yourself wondering why you ever worried in the first place.

I'm excited to help you overcome your gym anxiety. Together, we can start building up a healthy routine.

Let's meet!  Book a free intro with Coach Joe

Joe Marcavage

Owner, CrossFit Vertex