The gym is a fundamental part of many people’s lives. Not only does it bring physical benefits such as improving strength and burning fat, but it also brings a sense of routine and various mental benefits. Despite the obvious pros, to some people, the idea of walking into a gym and using complex equipment can be hellish. Fortunately, grabbing yourself a gym membership and going alone isn’t the only option when it comes to working out. Whether you want to work out at a gym or elsewhere, here are four workout options for those suffering from gym anxiety.
Cardio
Cardio refers to exercise that increases blood flow and gets the heart pumping. Think of activities like running, swimming and cycling, which are all taxing on the body and will likely leave you out of breath.
For those who are a bit hesitant about walking into a busy gym, the beauty of these exercises is that they don’t need to be completed in a gym. In fact, all you need is a pair of running shoes and a nice route if you want to kickstart a running journey. If running’s not your thing, consider investing in a road bicycle if you like the idea of cycling to keep fit.
Activities like these are often less daunting to begin when compared with the gym. There’s less focus on form and technique and you won’t have the fear of being judged for lifting small weights!
Group Training
If you like the idea of strength training or functional fitness but are put off by not knowing where to start, many gyms will offer these types of fitness in the form of classes. Working out in a group can be less intimidating as coaches will often be on hand to teach the correct form or demonstrate how to use relevant equipment.
Fitness studios offering group training are becoming increasingly popular and these places often pride themselves on being a community with a welcoming atmosphere. This makes for a beginner-friendly experience for those who are at the start of their fitness journey.
Personal Trainer
Another option for those who like the idea of a gym session but don’t like the anxiety that comes with it is working with a personal trainer. This can be a great way to learn how to use machines and ease yourself into going it alone in the gym.
It’s also a great way to ensure that your technique is correct which is something you can carry into your future gym sessions if you decide to go it alone. Ensuring you are using the correct technique will result in a reduced chance of injury while you should see results more quickly too.
Sport
Joining a sports team or taking up a new sport can be one of the most enjoyable ways to stay fit. While your main goal might be to burn calories, you’ll also find yourself meeting new people and learning new skills.
Combat sports like boxing and MMA are renowned for requiring extremely high levels of fitness. Even just training in these sports can offer a rigorous cardio workout and unlike competing, won’t leave you needing to visit an Oxford dentist!
Team sports like basketball, soccer and rugby are also great options for those looking to get a workout in while participating in sport.
