How To Feel More Confident When You Start Exercising

Starting a new fitness regime can be exciting, but it can also be daunting. If you’re a beginner, you’ve taken a long break from the gym, or you’re returning to training after an injury, you may be nervous about taking that first step. Here are some tips to help you feel more confident when you start exercising.



Be realistic about what you can achieve

It takes time to increase your fitness levels, strength and stamina, so it’s crucial to be realistic about what you can achieve. Before you start training, set yourself goals that will push you, but make sure they are attainable. Do you want to lose weight? Are you working towards a goal of running a marathon or completing a triathlon? Do you want to be able to run for a bus or chase the kids without struggling for breath? Are you hoping to boost your mental and physical health? Whatever your reason for being more active, always be realistic.

Dress the part

We all feel better when we look good. If you’re preparing for your first training session, or you’ve decided to join an exercise class or enroll in virtual sessions, the way you dress can make a difference to your confidence levels. Rather than digging out some old gym clothes you haven’t even seen in years, let alone worn, treat yourself to some new activewear. You can find all kinds of products, such as printed and patterned tops and shorts and above the knee leggings and training sweats online. If you look great, you’ll feel a million dollars and this will give you the confidence to get started.

Try and avoid comparing yourself to others

It’s human nature to compare yourself to others, but when it comes to building confidence, this can be an obstacle. If you walk into a gym or a spin class, and you start analyzing what other people look like, you might feel like you don’t measure up. Focus on yourself, and always remember that everyone has to start somewhere.

Take a buddy with you

There’s no doubt that strolling into a gym, going for a jog in the park or joining an exercise class can be a scary prospect when you’re a novice. If you feel anxious, why not take a buddy with you? If you have a friend there for moral support, you’ll feel more comfortable and you might also enjoy the session more. Many people work out with friends and family members, and taking classes or going for hikes is a great way to socialize and get fit at the same time.




For many of us, getting fit is a means of improving health and wellbeing, but it’s also a way of improving confidence. If you’re starting out with low self-esteem, there are ways to increase confidence and make the prospect of getting into exercise less scary. Be realistic when setting targets, focus on yourself, treat yourself to some funky gym wear and take a friend or family member with you for moral support. Good luck!

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