Ever get ready for a workout -- put on your shoes, grab your keys, head out the door -- only to have your mind and body become overwhelmed with a racing heart, rapid thoughts, and anxiety? If yes, the truth is, you are not alone. Feelings of fear associated with leaving the house, being around groups of people, looking silly in front of strangers, having eyes on you, or not being confident in your body can lead to what experts call “exercise anxiety.” And, thousands, if not millions, of Americans struggle with it. Heck, even people who work out regularly as well as pro athletes, at times, can become gripped by it.
Luckily, rather than skipping workouts or shying away from exercise, there are a few things you can do to overcome exercise anxiety. And, to help you on that path, we put together a list of five tips.
Tip 1: Workout With A Friend
We love this tip because it is based on the age-old idea of having a support system. Whether it is heading to the gym, going for a jog in the park, or even doing a HIIT program at home, working out with a friend can curb feelings of discomfort in all sorts of ways.
First, just knowing that you are not alone is one of the best ways to overcome anxiety. Second, it's like having a personal cheerleader saying “You got this, I’m right here.” Third, it keeps you accountable. Having to show up because someone else is waiting for you can be the first step towards -- just doing it.
Tip 2: Take Time Into Account
Something that a lot of people may not at first think about, time actually can play a big role in anxiety. If you are working out at the gym or at the park right after work when most other people exercise -- anxiety is sure to kick in. This is especially true if the racing thoughts and beating heat are due to not enjoying being around lots of people or a dislike of eyes on you.
Instead, try to pick a time when there will be little to no people around--early in the morning or late at night tend to be perfect. You could even try to move your lunch break ahead or back an hour to a time when most people are still working.
Tip 3: Seek Advice From A Coach
A lot of time people are overcome with exercise anxiety because they are unsure of what they are doing in the first place. This can be fear of doing a squat wrong, unsure about what weight to pick, or confusion on running pace. Whatever it is, the best way to overcome it is to ask the experts.
A coach, in person, or a FREE online advice person, can help you learn exactly how to do something. This way you can work out in total confidence, knowing what you are doing is correct.
Tip 4: Try Different Types Of Workout
An interesting tip, when it comes to trying a different workout, the idea is to mix it up and hopefully find something you are more comfortable with. For example, if lifting weights at the gym is causing panic, maybe forgo the membership fees, invest in some weights, and work out at home in private.
At the end of the day, the best way to feel great about the exercise you are doing is to mix and match until you find one that fills you with self-confidence. After all, isn’t that why you are working out in the first place? To feel better--both mentally and physically.
Tip 5: Have The Right Gear
Incredibly simple yet highly impactful, when it comes to wearing and using the right gear, it can make a world of difference. Just think about a woman in a made-for-her little black dress or a man in a made-for-him suit, walking with their head held high. The same goes for workout gear. Ditch the ratty old tees and baggy shorts.
Get dressed for exercise in clothing that makes you feel good, and your anxiety may just disappear. We’re talking about everything from sneakers, to tops, bottoms, and, of course, super cool compression socks!
Physical and Mental Wellbeing Is Important
Let us leave you with this: when it comes to both your physical and mental wellbeing, it is not something to write off. Know your limits, do what feels right, and most of all, have fun. And, speaking of fun, Best Compression Sock Sale is all about putting fun in functional. Our ever-growing family is always here to support and lift you up.