Let's be honest, the gym has always been my personal monster lair. The idea of walking in, clueless and clumsy, surrounded by sculpted gym rats pumping iron, has filled me with more dread than a dentist appointment. "What if I use the machine wrong?" "What if everyone stares at me?". These anxieties, coupled with the fact that I'm a full-fledged germaphobe and the thought of sweaty equipment sends shivers down my spine, have kept me firmly on the outside of that gym door for ages.

But here's the thing: I'm done letting fear hold me back. And guess what? You probably are too! The truth is, the gym doesn't have to be a scary place. It can actually be your fitness playground! Here's how to transform that gym anxiety and germaphobic jitters into workout excitement:

Baby Steps, Big Results: You don't need to conquer the squat rack on day one. The gym isn't a competition (except maybe with yourself to beat yesterday's you). Start with something manageable, like a brisk walk on the treadmill. You'll build confidence and fitness gradually, feeling like a champion with each step (or push-up, or squat).  Remember, progress is progress, no matter how small it seems.

Bring a Buddy: Working out with a friend is like having your personal cheerleader (minus the pom-poms, hopefully). They'll motivate you, keep you company, and maybe even laugh at your occasional exercise goof-up (we've all been there!). If you don't have a gym buddy yet, don't worry! Many gyms offer group fitness classes that can be a great way to meet new people with similar goals.

Comfort First, Confidence Later: Feeling self-conscious? Rock that baggy t-shirt and comfy sweatpants! Most people at the gym are laser-focused on their workouts, and honestly, nobody cares what you're wearing. You're there to improve yourself, and that's awesome! Besides, confidence will come with each workout. Soon you'll be rocking that gym outfit like a champion. Think of it this way: everyone starts somewhere. Those sculpted gym rats you imagine weren't always lifting weights like they were born to do it. They probably started out just as nervous and unsure as you feel now.

Music Makes It Magic: Blast your favourite tunes! Upbeat music can transform a treadmill slog into a mini dance party. Just be mindful of headphone volume and gym etiquette (no one needs to hear your entire playlist).  Music can be a powerful motivator, so pick something that gets you pumped and ready to move.

Focus on Fun, Not Fear: Instead of dreading the workout, think about how good you'll feel afterwards. Picture yourself energised, accomplished, and maybe even a little sore (in a good way!). Shift your mindset from punishment to progress. You're not there to torture yourself, you're there to invest in your health and well-being.

The Power of Apps: Fitness apps offer a plethora of workout routines, guided exercises, and even virtual trainers. They can be a great way to learn new exercises, keep your workouts fresh, and even track your progress. There are apps specifically designed for beginners, so you can find one that caters to your exact needs and comfort level.

Embrace the Newbie Status: Everyone starts somewhere! Don't be afraid to ask a trainer or gym staff for help with equipment. Most gyms offer free consultations or introductory sessions to help you get comfortable. The trainers are there to guide you, not judge you. They'll be happy to show you how to use the equipment safely and effectively.

Conquer Your Germs: Look, the gym isn't a germ-free zone. But here's the good news - most gyms have sanitation wipes readily available for you to clean equipment before and after use. Bring a small hand towel to keep with you while you work out, and don't be shy about using it. You can also pack a travel-sized hand sanitiser for extra peace of mind.

We talked to a bunch of people just like you, who felt the same anxieties. But guess what? They all overcame those fears and found their fitness haven at the gym. Remember, the gym is full of regular people with the same goal: to get healthier and feel better. So ditch the fear, embrace the fun, and turn that gym into your fitness playground!

Natasha Fonseka
Director, FIT.LK

As a dancer I had never been to the gym, my husband (at that time boyfriend) took me to my first gym. It was nothing short of intimidating and scary, but he took me through each exercise and guided me on form on technique… got a cramp on the hamstring curl machine and passed out on my first day at the gym so it’s safe to say I don’t think il ever forget my first day at the gym, it was the most hilarious thing. But after that day I never turned back. Loved it so much I even got certified to become a trainer. I recommend everyone looking to join a gym to sign up with a personal trainer, it always helps reassure you and helps you get the results you want the right way without wasting any time.

Shaheem Mohammed
Director - Evolution by High Octane

For me, going to the gym for the first time was a bit intimidating as well just like any person who starts for the first time. But after a few weeks of being consistent, the fear slowly goes away plus, the gym community makes a big difference as well. A majority of the members will help you and tell you how to do the exercises properly. Nowadays many trainers specialise in different areas. This means you can find a trainer who's an expert in helping beginners like you! So people who want to start their fitness journey will have nothing to worry about being judged or insecure about how they compare to other gym-goers as the trainers will guide them.

Ben
Fitness & Strength Trainer 

Find the right trainer who works for you and knows what he’s doing at a reputed gym. Don’t worry because everyone is worried about what other people think of them, and they don’t have time to think about other people. Do your thing. Everyone’s there for one goal.

Salvin Ali Saleh
Head of Marketing

My first gym experience was when I was 17 years old in a local spot near my house. Being a scrawny 45kg kid and 5'10", I felt intimidated and ashamed when the trainer gave me just the bar to squat. I stopped after a week. At 19, I started gymming again in Kuwait with my dad, where coaches explained progressive overloading without hurting my ego. Since then, my gym journey has been on and off though more on at many gyms since. My advice: don't compare yourself to others. Focus on being better than before, learn proper form, and pay attention to your muscles. Consistency is key to understanding your body and improving yourself, and don't forget rest and nutrition.

Adrian De Silva 
Content Creator and Former Model

When I started going to a gym like anyone I was afraid of being judged because I was skinny and I did not know what needed to be worn or what I should have even carried with me but since then I have worked out and many gyms and my experience has always been very positive with the support and the communities that are at gyms, feel free to talk to trainers and get advice, carry the essentials like a face towel, wear a decent pear of shoes so you don't injure yourself and the rest of the gear and the appeal will follow, everyone has a style and it's unique to you and you alone. 

Everyone at these gyms who is on a fitness journey - started somewhere so, no one gets more support than someone who is starting is what I have noticed.

Hannah Pickering 
Graphic Designer, Cake Designer 

My first time at the gym (I’m currently a member of), was the same as my first time at any gym: confusing and daunting. Two months later, I couldn’t feel further from that than I do now.

All it took was having a week’s worth of a schedule on my phone to keep me focused on a workout, and not being afraid to look up from the floor/my phone once in a while. You’d be surprised, nobody is leering, and nobody cares what you’re doing (unless they’re trying to ‘spot’ you/help you). The few times I have locked eyes, they were a brief, gentle gaze followed by a polite, or supportive ‘nod’. 

If you’re wondering whether or not you should invest in that gym membership you’ve been promising yourself for so long, you should! Just do it. Join it. Join the gym to lead an improved, better and healthier lifestyle. Join it to become stronger, have better mental clarity, relieve stress, to be a little better than yesterday. Join the gym for You, and you alone