Going to the gym today. Need help.

[MBailey99]

Haven't set foot in a gym since before I had a baby nearly 5 years ago. I used to be so confident. I was toned and three stone lighter than I am now. I don't care one jot about the other people in the gym and what they think. However, I am incredibly anxious that I will walk in there and not have a clue what I'm doing. Will get overwhelmed and frustrated at how unfit I am and how much weight I need to lose (over 40lbs). I really need a kick up the bum if you lovely lot don't mind!

I was in a very similar position not long ago. Big gym, everyone looked confident and I was over weight, unfit and self conscious.
To start with I just used the running machines to walk as it was the only thing I knew how to work but it gave me a great vantage point to watch others and get an idea how they used the machines.
I then found boot camp exercise classes with an instructor which I love and go three times a week.(I'd never been 3 times a week in my entire life).
I started to notice the same people and whilst not at the conversation stage, we do smile or nod.
I thought everyone would be looking at me and judging but what did surprise me was no one is interested and may not even notice you, let alone judge but I also noticed is that if you ask for help or advice people are more than happy to assist. I have over 3 stone to loose and haven't lost any because i still like my food but i feel fitter and have changed shape with less flabby bits so its a positive start. Sending you a big hand hold as you walk through the door with your head held high, you've got this, one step at a time but go for it.🙂🙂

I know exactly where you're coming from, I went back to the gym last month after quite a break.

My biggest piece of advice is take it slowly. If you use the machines, take your time to get them set up and read the little instruction panel on them - you won't look silly or anything. I see people who obviously have worked out for years reading the little blurbs! Just take your time, relax, and enjoy it! Start light, there's nothing wrong with that - a couple of machines I use at the very lightest weight setting, and I'm not embarrassed to say I struggle, and I look like I struggle, too!

Everyone starts somewhere. Sounds like you have a good blueprint to work with, so I imagine your body will have some memory and you'll get back into it quicker than you think!

I totally get how you feel. It’s completely normal to feel a bit anxious about going back to the gym after a long break. But remember, everyone starts somewhere, and you’re taking an amazing step toward your fitness goals. Take it one day at a time, start with exercises you’re comfortable with, and gradually challenge yourself. Don’t be too hard on yourself - progress takes time. You’ve got this.

Having a plan will really help. Decide what you enjoy and want to achieve and build around that so you can track progress. I build routines that last for 2-3 months. It will be a lot easier than wandering round not knowing what to do next.

Good luck!