I joined a gym. I want overcome the intimidation and stay motivated.

[Kbrown2930]

I did it, I stepped out on faith and joined a gym.  I usually get really intimidated by the 4th week and give  up.  I always hit a stumbling block when it comes to gyms.  I know that it is worth it, and I really need the structure.  I don't have access to the right equipment otherwise. I always see the ultra fit ladies and the ones that have been working out forever and I get so intimidated.  I feel like I look foolish trying to work out with my unexperienced overweight self.  I really want to become someone that regularly works out and get fit and healthy. I want to keep my motivation and see it through this time.   I just need some pointers on not being intimidated and staying motivated to keep up.  Somebody....Help a Sista Out!!

[kao123 · Accepted solution]

You are being awesome by joining and going to the gym.  That is the first step.  I find it helpful to make sure you have good music to keep you motivated.  If TV is your thing, find a good show to watch while you are working out. 

Just remember that a lot of people start off slowly building up their endurance.  Some days you may not feel it as much as others.  I still have those days.  I go anyway, because I find I get into once I am surrounded by others working out.

I hope this helps and let me know if I can help be a motivator.

[Kbrown2930]

I would love that. I'm always struggling to stay motivated. Thank you so much for offering to help. These are great tips. I'm a little nervous, but I really want to see it through this time. I want to develop a consistent, healthy routine.

[awood08]

My gym offers group classes, all are Les Mills and I picked two a week that I went to religiously. I formed friendships with the girls in class because we all are there every week. That helps me alot to keep going. I also make sure to go only after work, never in the morning before work. I have turned gym time into my stress relief time. After work all day, it's the best way to release all the tension of the day. I generally do 1-2 classes a week (they took away my favorite class on Monday) and the other 3 days I go I mix it up between strength training and treadmill/cardio.

[Kbrown2930]

Thanks  @awood08 Got a question if you don't mind. 

What classes do you take.  I'm thinking of taking a spin class.  

[awood08]

I take Les Mills Bodystep every Thursday (it's super high cardio) and it's completely awesome! You burn serious calories with that. I also do Les Mills Body Combat some weeks, but it's more kickboxing and I feel weird jabbing and kicking around. I'm more of a dancer so Bodystep works better for me. I take spin class every other Saturday morning, since the only classes during the week are too late in the evening. I enjoy spin class but it will kick your butt the first time. And it's a pain in the butt, literally, your tush will be sore! lol Bring lots of water, stretch really good beforehand, and a towel. Don't try to keep up with everyone in the class right away, it takes time to build up to that intensity.

[Kbrown2930 · Accepted solution]

Thanks so much @awood08.  This is really helpful. 

My big issue right now is I'm still recovering from foot surgery about 6 weeks ago, so I have to do things that don't require a lot of stepping right now.  But bikes seem to be okay.  I wish I could do the step aerobics, but my poor feet aren't ready yet.  However, I will definitely be doing those things once the doctor gives me the go ahead.  He said cycling and low impact aerobics were fine.  Gosh... I love the fitbit community, you guys help me so much.

[kao123 · Accepted solution]

I spin twice a week...Tuesdays and Fridays.  Absolutely love it.   Make sure to introduce yourself to the instructor, have him or her help you set up your bike.  The first time may not be as smooth as you see others moving.  Just keep cycling, it took me 6 weeks of class just to get the motion of up and down w/o any stopping to adjust the gears up or down. 

[awood08]

That's why I'm where I am, being on Fitbit has been amazing. The motivation and support is like no other 🙂

Good luck with your foot recovery!

[Kbrown2930]

Thanks @kao123. I wouldn't have known that.  I'm so new to this.  I so appreciate you.

[kao123]

Glad to help and answer what I can.   I saw you got another reply about bringing your water.  Absolute truth.  I use 2 water bottles - just 1 is never enough. 

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@Kbrown2930 wrote:

Thanks @kao123. I wouldn't have known that.  I'm so new to this.  I so appreciate you.

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[glitterlizzy]

Awesome! Congrats for taking the first step.  I was like you when I started because people seem so fit in the gym already.  I started going pretty regularly about 2 months ago, 5 days a week.  I know the first 4 weeks it was hard to keep motivated and get myself to just go.  Just know your body will adjust to the workouts so take it slow, your body will tell you when you need more of a challenge.  I know when I started I felt so out of shape and tired after the first 20 minutes.  Every week it was helpful for me to add more time or resistance to what I was doing.  Now it's a routine finally I know I have to go.  I actually feel guilty when I don't.  I'm up to about an hour a day, wish I could do more but time before work is limited.  I look back where I started and was glad I gave myself some starting time to get used to working out.  It really helps to just start slowly.  I'm lucky my gym has tv's right on the machines so I just watch that and the time seems to fly by.  Hope that helps, and your foot heals fast for you.  You can do it!

[Breeder]

I must be the most overweight person at my gym. I don't actually care. I'm determined and focussed on my workout I don't even take notice of those around me.

You're being too self conscious. Just deal with the matter in hand. Keep going to the gym and work towards your goals.

Good luck!