6 Strategies to Overcome Fear of Working Out:

A Workout Pep Talk for Beginners

Working out can be intimidating when you don’t know what you’re doing, am I right? Intimidation causes many to give up on their workout plan before they even begin. There are a few reasons for this, so if you have ever been in the boat that was lost at sea, not knowing what to do or how to start – follow along as I give you 6 strategies that help overcome your fear of working out and gain confidence in the process.

1. Let Go of Fear and Intimidation

Have you ever wanted to go to a workout class that actually sounded fun, but didn’t go because you were too nervous or scared? You picture yourself doing the thing and you are killing it. But when it comes down to it, your deeper fear seeps through and you are downright terrified of falling flat on your face and looking like a fool.

Let me tell you something, new friend. Every single person that is joining you in class had a first class at one point too, and I bet they didn’t know what they were doing either. And I can guarantee with almost absolute certainty that they had similar feelings that you’re feeling too! The more you go, the more you learn and the more comfortable you become. This same logic applies to walking into a gym. And if your plan was to workout at home, you have absolutely no excuses – no one can see you!

I think it’s common too to feel like everyone is watching you and judging you for what you’re doing or how you’re doing it. However, I’m confident that if someone looks at you, they want to give you a high five for taking action to move your body. We are so often self-absorbed and it’s easy to make false assumptions, when really we’re all in this together. That said, who the fuck cares what anyone else thinks anyways? You do what you need to do to reach your goals. Don’t succumb to someone else’s ego or let imaginary thoughts stop you before you even begin.

Think of it like starting a new job or going to a new school. It’s scary but you have to do it. Over time, you become more comfortable. So just go!!

2. Comfort zones

Change doesn’t happen from sitting in the spot you find comfortable. Allow yourself to grow. Imagine the amazing opportunities that await by trying new things. Imagine the potential friendships you can create. Maybe your new workout buddy is just through those doors.

There was this time that I wanted to try this thing called aerial acrobatics. I asked friends to go with me because I was super intimidated to do it alone. But nobody wanted to go with me. I really couldn’t stop thinking about though, so I put on my big girl work out pants and went alone. It was super scary then, but now I can’t imagine a life without aerial acrobatics in it. I pushed myself more than ever and have even performed several times in front of real people!!! I wasn’t great at it, but I did it. Conquering one fear has allowed me to push myself to do newer scarier things and attending classes is no longer scary like it once was.

3. Find Something You Like

The world of fitness has endless options. There is bound to be something perfectly fit for you. It doesn’t have to be a gym membership. There are classes and endless options to work out from the comfort of your own home. Some of these options are free, like YouTube and Instagram. I’ve tried so many new things and they have truly been blessings, opening my eyes to the various ways to challenge the body and my life is forever changed because of it.

4. Start Small

This is so important. Start small. You don’t need to work out 1 hour a day, 7 days a week. If you set that bar for yourself, you will quickly become overwhelmed when life gets in the way. Instead make a workout schedule that you are comfortable with and know you can stick to.

5. Allow yourself to Learn

If you open yourself to learning, you’ll become more comfortable much quicker. Look forward to learning something new so you can do it just as bomb as the girl that inspired you to try it in the first place.

Ask how and why. Learning proper form is important for preventing injury. Digging even deeper to learn the theory as to why move is done a specific way will keep the momentum moving forward with a stronger foundation and knowledge base that naturally produce better results.

6. Consistency

When you show up for yourself on a regular basis, I bet you’ll surprise yourself with your growth a lot quicker than you think.  Persistence is the driver to keep going.  Want it, work for it, get it.  You aren’t going to get it just by showing up twice a year. 

Final Words

The sky is the actual limit for you to grow. Prove it to yourself that you can do things you dream in your head. Let go of the fear and intimidation and create “I told you so” moments you can shove in your own face. Let me know your favorite way to work out!

P.S. Follow me over on insta do we can connect there. @ahumbledelight

Disclaimer:  Always consult your doctor before starting a new workout program.  This should not be taken as medical advice.