Hiya

[WleshPeep]

Hello, new here I want to go to the gym but I’m extremely self conscious, are there any ways which can help with this??

[Pamed]

Hello , I would not worry if I were you no one looks at other people these days , you could try going walking first loose a few pounds then you may feel a bit more comfortable but honestly don’t worry about it your changing your life style to get healthy. That is why people go to the gym

But im sure when you go you will find people very helpful and nice no one worries any more..

I lost my weight but all I did was walk every day and I have kept it all off

Hope that helps and good luck to you .

Have a nice day

Xxx🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️

[Slowgoing in reply to Pamed]

I was awfully overweight when I started going to the gym, a size 24 ladies clothes I wore a good sports bra, loose t-shirt and jogging bottoms. I meet some lovely ladies at the gym, first of all it was just a nod and a smile as we walked past each other on the machines, then a hi when getting sorted in the changing room and after a few months we were doing the same classes and chatting whilst setting up and tidying away. No one ever mentioned my weight except to notice when I’d lost a lot.

Please don’t worry everyone was really friendly.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Run outside.. loads more space... people too busy to notice you.... parks, canal paths, trails or just round and about...

Please do check out the pinned FAQ post for Newbies too.

You will find that if folk do stare they are envious. that you are out there and running!

[Glossy Graduate]

I agree with Oldfloss, go outside. If anyone sees you it will be fleeting and to be honest, they really don’t care!! Means you go home and shower and get ready in your own bathroom, no hiding behind towels, and you don’t have any gym anxiety. I know that I’m riddled with it and would hate to go to a gym!

I wear a cap to run and I’m sure no one has any idea who I am when I’m out and about. I used to choose a quiet route so I wouldn’t be spotted. As time has gone on I don’t really mind who sees me, all I get is a nice ‘hello’ from a fellow runner or cyclist anyway. (I still wear the cap!)

[Running_Giraffe Graduate]

People have this misconception of the gym that they'll be laughed at and people will stare when the reality is people are too invested in themselves to notice you're there.

For the couch 2 5k I'd recommend running outside, again no one looks nor cares and you can choose your scenery as for joining a gym for other reasons most of them will offer a free PT session to start you. I'd recommend taking the offer, it'll give you some knowledge of the machines and a little more confidence.

Good luck!

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

Go beat the self consciousness... it was the best thing I did after starting the plan, but I feel I put it off too long. Be seen, you may just inspire someone else.

[Kertesz]

I’ve been SO surprised how many people have smiled/encouraged me while out running. I really hadn’t anticipated it. I think maybe it’s a respect that we’re doing *something*. Maybe give outside a go? Lots more distractions than the gym plus fresh air too!! X

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your decision.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Enjoy your journey

[ButtercupKid Graduate]

Most of the people around you, no matter how gorgeous they look, will be feeling much the same. Remember you look better running than you do slobbed out on the couch x

[GibsonBBKing Graduate]

An administrator replied to you about recommending the great outdoors and I agree. I see all sizes and shapes when I'm driving and I respect all of them. Nevertheless, with the self conscious thing in mind, which I feel too, I have chosen a jogging route that is relatively quiet apart from a busy road crossing. But if there is nowhere quiet and you're worried about what other people think, remember that you have the respect of everyone's opinion that matters. Good luck

[micey2 Graduate]

You are Worthy! I also felt a bit self conscious when I started the gym ( overweight and 58) but I found that my local gym was friendly and people of all ages, shapes and sizes go and no one will judge because you are like them, trying to get fit. I got into it by going to classes as well, step and spin so I had guidance and it was fun. It was eight months later when I started C25K and now I have the best of both worlds, i used the treadmill at the gym this morning because it was so windy although it was only the second time I’ve ran indoors. Good luck in your healthy lifestyle no matter how you choose to do it

[Reggiegirl Graduate]

Hi and the first step is the biggest.

Before I started C25K I had used the thought of 'being looked at' to stop me running. Very embarrassed at being seen.

Now 9 weeks late I can honestly say I couldn't give a monkeys. Just do it! People are too busy to take much notice anyway. Good luck