Cigarettes, Wine, and Fire: How to Beat Gymtimidation
Sometimes the most challenging part of our workout isn’t the weights, but the fear of working out in a gym, or “gymtimidation.” That’s why I interviewed gym owners, fitness influencers, and local strong guys to build a list of advice for first-time gym goers:
Leggy Watson — TikTok Fitness Influencer
Q: What’s the best advice you’ve heard about being comfortable at the gym?
A: Nobody cares about what you’re doing so don’t stress about how much weight is on the bar or how fast you’re running on the treadmill. What they do care about is your outfit, so make sure you’re wearing something cute.
Q: What’s some gym etiquette you wish you knew when you started out?
A: Nothing will turn you into a gym villain quicker than hogging several machines at once. Just use one at a time and move on as soon as you’re done with your sets and selfies.
Also, if you see someone filming their workout or a funny gym sketch, duck behind a pile of gym mats until they’re done so you don’t get in the way.
Q: Any advice for making friends at the gym?
People with headphones on can seem cold and unapproachable. Play your music out loud on your phone so people know what you are into.
And most importantly, you can be friendly but don’t be the gym creep. Only flirt with people if you’re really hot or have a nice car.
Reggie Reggie — Health & Wellness Coach
Q: 85% of first-time gym goers never return. What advice do you have for those who are struggling to come back?
A: The key to any successful fitness plan is habit. I’ll say it again: habit, habit, habit. It takes weeks of repeated action until it’s simply ingrained in your brain. Kind of like smoking cigarettes. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, try smoking cigarettes.
Q: What about those who simply don’t know what to do when they’re there?
A: When I first started working out, I learned a lot from simply observing the strongest guys in the gym. What lifts are they doing? How many reps/sets and how much weight? When they go home what are their sleeping and eating habits. What are they watching on TV and what kind of pajamas do they wear to bed? What techniques are they using to pummel you for peeking through their window?
Chaz Cheeny — Used to work at Gold’s Gym back in the day
Q: What’s a common mistake gym newbies should be aware of?
A: So say you’re working real hard, you sweat all over the seat and all over the machine. Grab a disinfectant wipe and clean it up right away. Otherwise, this guy Roger comes and steals it for his sweat collection.
Q: Many people are anxious at the gym. How do you stay calm and focused?
A: The gym is a temple. My church. That’s why I mix wine in with my non-caffeinated pre-workout. The caffeinated stuff gives me the jitters like not drinking wine does.
Q: What advice do you have for staying safe at the gym?
A: Most harassment I’ve seen happens in the locker room. That’s why I record everything that happens in there on my phone. Then I have evidence of any abuse or funny looking butts to show my friends. Want to see?
Prisoner 825503 — Insisted on being interviewed
Q: First-timers are often intimidated by gym equipment. How do you get comfortable with a new machine?
A: Start a small fire on the other side of the gym. Diversion.
Q: Won’t people start to notice the correlation of gym fires while you’re there?
A: Gym fires happen every day. But, you can also avoid peak hours. Go overnight. Break in. No crowds.
Q: What about advice for those who want to get comfortable working out in front of other people?
A: Routine is key. Eliminate second guessing and doubt. Tattoo your routine on your leg.
Q: Any advice for someone going to the gym for the first time?
A: Enter the gym with confidence. Find the biggest, strongest guy and fight him.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your camera, wine, and cigarettes and get started on your new fitness journey today!
