Hello everyone, when I started going to the gym, I was a very introverted person like you. I faced many difficulties coping with the gym. There was fear, anxiety, and tension building up in my mind. How could I get started on the journey? How would I enter the gym? How could I face all the people there? How would I use the equipment? I had a feeling like someone would judge me, someone would see me, and many different thoughts flooded my mind like scenes from a horror movie! But I didn’t give up. I made up my mind and entered the gym, though it took me almost 8 months of thinking to fix my mind. I’m still an introverted person, but I didn’t give up. Slowly, I coped with the environment there. I know many of you are struggling too. I can share how I coped with this, how my journey was going to the gym as an introvert. A journey toward personal growth, empowerment, and self-discovery.
Coping Strategies
Here are some ways I followed to cope with struggling with going to the gym as an introvert. I hope this will help you too. We all know everything is in our mind; our mind and body are connected to each other.
So the first thing I noticed was a lack of confidence, fear, and anxiety in my mind. Then, I searched on Google, YouTube, etc. I know many of you are doing the same! I read some articles, watched some videos, motivational videos so I could gain some confidence. I made up my mind that I had to go to the gym. As Naval Ravikant said, “A fit body, a calm mind, a house full of love. These things cannot be bought — they must be earned.”
Choosing Off-Peak Hours
The first thing I did was call my trainer to inquire about the gym’s peak hours so I could plan my visits during off-peak times. During off-peak hours, the gym is less crowded, which can make me feel more comfortable and confident in my workout environment. Therefore, I believe that going to the gym during off-peak hours can reduce anxiety. It provides a more relaxed atmosphere without the fear of being observed or judged. Additionally, considering timing issues, it’s important to find out which time of day best fits with your lifestyle. You can opt to go to the gym in the morning or evening, whichever suits you best. If mornings are too crowded, try going in the evening. Typically, most gyms experience heavy crowds between 7-9 a.m. and from 5-7 p.m., so choosing an afternoon or later evening time would work well for introverts like me.
Another advantage of going to the gym during off-peak hours is that it’s less crowded, allowing you to use the equipment without any trouble. Moreover, there are fewer people talking loudly on the phone or engaging in disruptive workouts, which can be annoying and distracting.
Utilizing Music and Attire
The second thing I did was put on headphones and listen to all my favorite songs that boost me up, allowing me to concentrate on my own workout. You can create a good playlist that energizes you, focusing on motivational and upbeat music. This can help you work out with more excitement and make your gym days more enjoyable. I also made sure to wear gym outfits, gym accessories, and a pair of good shoes, all of which boosted my confidence. One thing I forgot to mention is the benefit of bringing noise-canceling headphones to block out distractions.
All the strategies I’ve mentioned can help you feel more comfortable and focused during your workouts, allowing you to complete your sessions effectively without getting distracted by others.
Creating a Workout Plan
Embracing Introversion
For many introverts like myself, the idea of group fitness classes or crowded gym floors may not hold the same allure as it does for their extroverted counterparts. Instead, the solace of solitude and the comfort of familiar surroundings often beckon. Yet, as I’ve come to realize through my own journey, there’s a delicate balance to be found—a balance between the tranquility of solo workouts and the enriching experiences that communal exercise can offer.
The journey of an introvert is not without its challenges. The incessant chatter of small talk or the exuberant energy of certain classes may not always align with our preferences. Yet, amidst the cacophony of noise, there lies an opportunity for self-expression, for forging connections with those who share our passions and aspirations.
As introverts, we possess a unique strength—a quiet resilience that thrives in the midst of solitude yet flourishes in the warmth of genuine human connection. It’s a delicate dance between introspection and interaction, between self-discovery and communal support.
So, to my fellow introverts embarking on this journey, I offer these words of encouragement: Embrace your introversion, but do not let it confine you. Seek solace in solitude, but also find courage in community. And above all, trust in the power of your own resilience—to navigate the gym journey with confidence, authenticity, and unwavering determination.