5 Tips to boost Confidence at the Gym

I am no expert in being super confident at the gym. Actually until only a few months ago I was terrified of the place! But I feel like recently I’ve got to a place where I feel confident enough to go there on my own and came up with some tips which might help anyone struggling to get their workout in!

1.     Book a Gym Induction or Personal training taster, or Both!

A gym induction gives you a chance to get a feel for the space, set up and equipment and most importantly shows you how to use everything Safely! The gym instructor will take you around and show you how everything works he or she might take you through a taster session and write you a basic exercise plan, depending on what your local gym offers. These are usually free so there is nothing to loose. 

This isn’t essential for boosting gym confidence, but it can really help to get you more comfortable with the equipment and the space. If the PT’s at you’re gym offer it then try and book a taster PT session, these are usually free, or at a discounted rate. It will give you a chance to get a more personalised fitness session and maybe plan for you to work from. Also during your session you just focus on your PT, so you don't notice other people as much as you might if you were on your own. This really helps if you find yourself intimated by other people, plus at least there will be a face you know each time you go into the gym.

2.     Plan Ahead!

It might sound simple, but in order to stop you procrastinating during you’re session, or feeling out of place, make sure your sessions are planned in advance. This gives you a game plan for when you hit the gym; you’ll know what you’re doing and have more confidence because of it. I found that if I have a solid plan that I’m happy with, I can get in and get out so much faster because I don't dawdle or waste time thinking about technique or what I’m doing next. Also, try and have an idea of alternatives for your planned exercises, it can be frustrating especially if you are in a hurry waiting for a machine someone is using. If you have something else that will work the same muscle group you can just make an easy switch. 

3.     Ask when the gym is Quiet and go with a friend

This may sound silly, but if you ask the trainers or reception they usually have a good idea of when the gym will be quiet or busy. This will be different for every gym. I know that work or school commitments mean that time is not a luxury for most people but if you are nervous of going then the first few times try and go in a quiet ‘slot’ at you’re gym. This will give you the chance to get to know where everything is; you won’t have any pressure for machines or be intimidated by a crowded space. This really helped me to get use to using the space without feeling watched or rushed. If you can’t get a quieter slot then try and go with a gym buddy. Going with a friend can really help motivation – you have to meet them, so there are no excuses, you will also take confidence from each other, which will really help.

4.     Outfit Choice.

This may seem superficial but it is So important to boosting confidence. If you feel amazing then you will be less likely to worry about what other people think and feel more relaxed before you have even stepped foot in the gym. Try to wear quick drying clothes that don't show sweat as easily, so steer away from light greys they show sweat more easily than black!  

5.     Know what everyone feels the same way

This is a hard one and can apply to anything in life but especially in the gym environment. Everyone feels slightly awkward and a little out of place, but the fact that you at there means your 20 steps ahead of the person still on the sofa at home. I found that by just getting on with my thing I forgot about other people around me and relaxed.

I know just how intimidating the gym can be, but I think these tips can really help to boost confidence. They are things I’ve learnt from in my journey and I really hope they can help if you are struggling with confidence.

What are your tips to boost confidence? I would love to know!
Love,
Olivia

Sunday Outfit

I love Sundays. Yesterday we went on a little road trip and I thought I would share my outfit choice. I was a little optimistic about the weather but it was the first day of Spring so I feel my optimism was justified, plus I am tired of dark winter colors.

I paired my light wash Zara jeans with the most comfy top, it's from Isabel London- I'm sorry if the colors don't show up that well on camera but the top is the softest grey and has the most flattering cut, plus it is super comfy!

Staying with the neutral theme I picked these little heels from Marks and Spencer. I think these are the perfect Spring shoe, the little peep toe and the soft beige suede are perfect for when you want something less than a boot but warmer than wedges or sandals. They are so easy to walk in because of the little block heel.
As I was running out of the house I realized just how cold it was! So I grabbed this coat which goes with everything. Cut just above the knee and tailored just enough to give you some shape around your waist suits everyone.

Zara Jean, Isobel London Top, Next Coat, Marks and Spencers Shoes