Back to the gym aged 55

[lurchermummy]

Just posting for moral support and accountability! Recently took the plunge and rejoined the gym. I'm 55, arthritic and overweight. I've paid for 3 sessions with a PT (can't afford more atm) and she is helping me with technique and form. I am looking to tone up and feel fitter and stronger. Weight loss would be a bonus. I really struggle with feeling self conscious in the gym and lacking confidence. I feel like everyone is looking at me although I know they probably don't care. Any tips to push through this phase would be welcomed!

@lurchermummy I stumbled on this thread by chance. How are you getting on? I hope you are still going to the gym

Bodypump and RPM are two classes where people exercise at their own level and aren't really be aware of what other people are doing, so you might like to try those if you feel self conscious

Still going! Taking it relatively easy as I have dodgy joints but getting fitter and definitely feeling the benefit! Thanks for asking xx

That's great to hear OP!

How's it going @lurchermummy ? I've just joined a gym, starting next week and feel a bit nervous...

Hi it's good thanks @dontletsaskforthemoon - I don't go as often as I should, average twice a week - and had a knock back when I had flu a while back but am getting back into it now. It takes time to feel at home in the gym - but it's so worth it! Good luck!

Good to hear you're still 'at it' though, despite having flu. It's always the way isn't it; try and get into a routine and there's always something to fluff it up!

Also good to hear that it's worth it. 😊

@dontletsaskforthemoon definitely worth it - I'm not really any slimmer but I definitely have more stamina and I sleep better. Tonight I really had to force myself to go, but once I got going it was fine, and I felt so much better afterwards. I reckon it takes at least 6-8 sessions before you start feeling the benefit.

@lurchermummy Ah well done for going when you didn't feel like it. I'm awful for 'sticking with' anything tbf. So I know that I just HAVE to ignore the voice in my head that says 'you're too tired/you've still got XYZ to do' and just crack on and get to the gym! I'm planning on having a gym program which gets checked over every 6 weeks so I'm hoping to see small changes every time. Hopefully that'll help with maintaining motivation!

sounds good!! You can do it!!