Comparing Yourself To Other People in The Gym | Ep. 8
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Brought to you by protein: Pork… does 90% lean exist?
This is a conversation for beginners or those struggling with confidence, if you are out of shape there’s a possibility you hate going to the gym. You probably think gym culture is corny… “Hey, look at my biceps!” It happens to all types of non-fitness people and realize crap, I need to do SOMETHING I’ve gained some pounds. Maybe you’re uncomfortable in all your clothes, or skin, so you decide you want to work out. Maybe you try a group fitness class or join a gym, but you’ve never really worked out.
So you walk into a gym and there’s the fitness model and super swole dude in the corner grunting… do you start comparing yourself to these people? Do you start thinking things like, “I can’t do that! I can’t work out like THAT.”
This can be a slippery slope, but you need to take a moment to stop and look inside. You’re in the process and a beginner, when you are going at it alone, you may feel over your head. Don’t worry, you are NOT alone. Everyone starts somewhere, but lets stop the comparison game and how to improve yourself.
So, you aren’t the kind of person who has been working out for their life, or playing sports. That’s how I started, I was overweight and into skating and ballroom dancing. It was later in life that I started my fitness journey. While you don’t fit the Instagram model persona or body builder, start to think of yourself as “I need to get into better shape” “I need to be in better health.”
Don’t drink the hater-aid! Don’t assume people are starving, overeating, or doing steroids based on their physical body. If you focus on yourself and your journey, you will take a step in the right direction and release the unhealthy thinking and eat a piece of humble pie (it’s calorie free).
Don’t self-sabotage! Some people just don’t start because they fear failure. Some people do work harder and differently, but you’re a beginner. Part of the battle is just showing up and staying consistent. Leave your excuses at the door and try harder every day.
Don’t fall into the trap of comparison when starting your healthy journey, focus on what you did better today than yesterday. Chances are, when you’re in the gym no one is focusing on you or worrying about what you’re doing. Maybe you chose a gym that is judgmental, find somewhere else to go and find somewhere you are comfortable!
Side note: I’m not a licensed professional therapist, I read a lot and wake up every day trying to improve the life of my clients and self.