How to be confident in the gym

To all my over-thinkers. I understand that going to workout is more than just going to to the gym. All the social aspects can be daunting- especially if you're a newbie- but remember why you're there! Here are a few tips that definitely help me overcoming anxieties in the gym...

- Outfit

What you wear in the gym can massively boost your confidence. So wear that cute matching gym set if you want to but also if you feel more comfortable in a baggy tee then don't let Insta fit chicks persuade you otherwise! Some days I feel much better when I wear my favourite sports bra and other days I feel more myself when my hair is in a messy bun (and embracing my slightly-tomatoey glow). Most importantly, you do you.

- Have a plan

Having a workout plan pre-training (i.e. not making it up as you go) is key for training preparation (although it is fun sometimes to have a 'wing-it' session from time to time)! "Failure to prepare is preparation for failure"- as they say. Get yourself ready mentally too- visualise it even- such as thinking about your cues for squatting, before you even get to the gym. Also, then you're in and out and not wasting time not knowing what to do.

- Training partner

If you're not feeling particularly confident one day then invite one of your mates to train together or even ask someone you know at the gym. Sometimes a little extra motivation goes a long way. Not only will they (hopefully) make you work harder but it's always good to have a spot to help you when lifting heavy weights! Even if you are strong enough it's always reassuring that someone's there, just in case.

- Physically prepared

Perhaps maybe the most important point here. Meaning, (please) make sure you eat and drink enough water before training! I guarantee that you're not gonna feel your best if you're starving and need to lift on an empty stomach (unless you're intermittent fasting- then you do you). Also, eating the right foods prior. Everyone works differently but usually carbs are the best option (they digest quickly and are the best energy source). This includes sleep too- so make sure you're well rested! Otherwise, without these essential pillars of mental and physical well-being, you won't get a lot out of your session.

- Music

Some decent headphones and a good playlist for the gym is extremely underrated. Assemble your favourite tunes that make you energised, get you 'hyped' before lifting or just make you feel good in general. I have various playlists on my phone, with songs that aren't even necessarily workout songs but relax me or make me wanna move. Music is an amazing tool for staying focused and a method of therapy (just like working out is) so it can really enhance your workout session! Just make sure your phone (and headphones) are fully charged up before you go and you update your playlist occasionally so you don't get too bored.

- Fake it 'til you make it

Okay, yes, you should always try to be your authentic-self and unapologetically so. However, when it comes to confidence, this goes out the window... Honestly, what works for me is pretending to be confident! If you think about it, your face and body language give off impressions before you even say anything. So, drop your shoulders back, lift your head up and unclench your jaw and hands. Take some deep breaths if you need to. And the more you do it, the more you'll love being confident (don't get stuck on being an old version of yourself- you can change anytime)! You got this.

- Focus on you

At the end of the day, you're at the gym to improve yourself, in some shape or form. I know it's easy to assume people are judging or looking at you but remember everyone else is too focused on what they're doing to even care! Also, so what if they are? Say if you think you're doing something wrong you're only trying to better yourself by trying. Hold you're head up high and relax (easier said than done sometimes I know). Understand that even the people you look up to have been where you are now- so don't worry if you think your form isn't up to scratch or you're not lifting heavy enough (yet). As long as you're trying your best that's all that really matters!