Classes at the Gym

[DesertRain]

So I just switched my membership to a gym that has a lot of classes from Tai Chi to Yoga and even Polynesian Dance that are all included with my membership fees, as well as free daycare (woohoo). I would love to take advantage of these classes but I feel like an out of shape blob. How do I "start" going to these classes. I'm so shy and don't want to stand out like a sore thumb for being out of shape, never mind not knowing what everyone is doing! Help! Has anyone felt like this and overcome their fear?

[Lyssie]

Re: Classes at the Gym

Just show up! I went to the classes weighing 270, started going to gyms weighing 310 or so. You're moving your tushie and burning off the calories. You may be suprised that there are people of all shapes and sizes there, and most instructors make it pretty easy to follow along. If you are worried about it though, find the instructor a few minutes before class, if possible, and tell them you're new and worried about being able to keep up and if they have any suggestions that can help you.

[DesertRain]

Re: Classes at the Gym

Thanks Lyssie! I have no idea why I'm so shy...it's rather silly

[Lyssie]

Re: Classes at the Gym

I always thought if I was in a class that required jumping I would fall through the floor, but it never happened...

[Alexa]

Re: Classes at the Gym

Hey there,

Lyssie is totally right - people of all shapes and sizes go to classes. I felt not fit enough to start kickboxing classes and let it stop me joining for a whole YEAR! But once I finally went I was actually fine, there were people bigger, and smaller, fitter and unfitter. I was mad at myself because I could have been enjoying that whole time - so don't worry - just go for it!

[Alexa]

Re: Classes at the Gym

I always thought if I was in a class that required jumping I would fall through the floor, but it never happened...

I have a fear of snapping chairs, which is ridiculous now, but I don't think I'll ever lose it.

[Lyssie]

Re: Classes at the Gym

Ah, yeah, I've always had that fear... it's never happened *crosses fingers* though.

[bisabel79]

Re: Classes at the Gym

i joined spinning classe with 203 pounds and was shy at the beginning but them i got over it i know weight 164

[DesertRain]

Re: Classes at the Gym

Bisabel,
Were the spinning classes hard when you first started. Did you get lost among the instruction...what did you do if you got lost in a class, would you stop spinning? Ack, I'm so paranoid!

[Lyssie]

Re: Classes at the Gym

All the spin classes I've attended have been pretty easy to follow along. If you get lost in the instruction, just keep spinning and pickup later when you can follow again.

[chinadoll]

Re: Classes at the Gym

Jane, Go to the gym and talk to some of the instructors first. They can recommend classes that are best for your fitness level and can describe the classes in more detail than the ad blurb so you will know if it sounds like something you like.

You aren't at all silly to feel that way. I felt the same and worked out at home for a long time. Then I realized my exercise was not moving forward and I had to go to the gym. The first few weeks were difficult. I compared myself to everyone. But as I worked with my trainer and got into the classes my head was on the work, where it is supposed to be. I was no longer thinking about what everyone thought of me (except as I walked in and out of the class - LOL) After awhile I felt like I belonged there and I came in with a work attitude and let go of the other stuff. Now, I am told, I walk and carry myself like an athlete (and I am still a size 20, but a fit 20)

I lived in Hong Kong where everyone is a size 0 or 2 and here I was in pilates as a 24. Yes I felt self conscious but I could actually do some things better than these skinny minnies (and some things I couldn't do at all).

You probably will feel uncomfortable for awhile, but if you keep going the gym will become "your place" too and you will no longer feel this way because you will have started to see the improvements the classes are making and that is what you'll focus on.

The best way to get past this is to go regularly and in a month or so you won't feel this way. Honest.

[bisabel79]

Re: Classes at the Gym

dear jane don't be afraid at the beginning spinning was hard for me but i just kept going the teacher kept screaming at me to move but all the screaming was very motivating now i'm a pro the teacher still scream but he also congratulate me on losing much weight i love the way he motivates try spinning and you'll see is the best exercise ever!

[livelaughlove08]

Re: Classes at the Gym

At my gym I was scared to go at first... but think about it ... people are there who aren't in shape to get into better shape ... or there were people out of shape who now are in shape and knows what its like to be out of it... I know at the classes at my gym they are all very supportive and the classes are fun ... and it pushes you from wanting to quit while your working out because i know for me I don't want to seem like a fatty that can't do anymore so I push myself

[DesertRain]

Re: Classes at the Gym

Thanks you guys, very motivating! I definitely will go. I have my appointment with my trainer on Thursday and just when I find the determination to go and do this, my car breaks down. So now I'm stuck in the house. Hopefully the dealership will give me a loaner....it sucks because I've never been so gung ho (sp?) about going, it's like murphy's law....
I'll let you all know what happens. I appreciate your encouragement so much!

[chinadoll]

Re: Classes at the Gym

Look forward to hearing about it. Glad you are revved up and ready to go.