Tips for Overcoming Insecurities in the Gym

I’m really excited to be partnering with Gillette Venus on this post about overcoming insecurities in the gym. The Gillette Venus Swirl razor has been a daily part of my routine since sixth grade. Sixth grade! That’s just about 16 years for those counting. I first begged my mom for the razor mainly because I thought it was so cool that my BFF had one and I’ve stuck with the brand ever since because it’s hands down the best razor on the market in my experience. (And this is coming from a girl with thick, dark body hair and super sensitive skin. I know, I know, the best combination. 😣 If you can trust anyone, you can trust me on these matters.)

When I started going to my gym last year, I was overwhelmed with anxiety and fear. The gym felt so big, and everyone there seemed like a total pro. During my first week as a member, I saw a man set up an obstacle course in the central area where he LEAPT over a stack of equipment, and I thought to myself, “I don’t belong here!” Fast forward ten months and I am officially a “regular.” I love my trainer, I have a group text with the women in my fave class, and I get a wave from the guy at the smoothie station every day. Oh, and that man who did the big leap? I’m on a first-name-plus-a-high-five-basis with him.

Despite being a regular, I still get insecure in the gym from time to time.

Here’s how I combat it:

1. Wear something you feel confident in! Isn’t it amazing how many options we have for gym clothes now? The athleisure trend has been good to us. The great thing about this is that there are tons of stylish and comfortable things to wear in the gym. You don’t have to buy anything new, of course, although I do find new gear to be a great motivator, ha. But make sure what you do choose to wear, it’s something you feel confident and comfortable in. For me, I try to avoid things that have itchy tags or too-tight waistbands. I try to choose pants or shorts with a flattering design and a cut that won’t get in the way, especially if I’m doing yoga. Don’t let how you feel in your clothes hold you back from a great workout.

2. Pack a gym bag with the necessities! If you’re already feeling a little insecure in the gym, there is nothing worse than realizing that you forgot to pack or do something. For example, I always keep tampons, deodorant, and extra ponytails in my gym bag.

The worst thing to forget? To shave. This happens to me at least once a week, and it’s a mortifying feeling if I don’t catch it before class. The yoga classes are always tight quarters, and it’s not a good feeling to do a sun salutation and realize that I forgot to shave my underarms! Or when I’m in my strength training class and my partner has to grab my ankles for leg lifts and my legs are prickly. I don’t have too many insecurities about myself, but body hair is the one thing that I get super self–conscious about. I am all about hair removal.

I’ve tried everything throughout the years (waxing, electrolysis, cream removal lotion), but I always go back to my tried and true Gillette Venus Swirl razor. The Gillette Venus was my first razor (circa 2001), and it continues to be the best for hair removal. It’s the only brand that doesn’t irritate my skin, and it gets me the closest shave ever. For real, I’d rather have hairy legs than even attempt to use a “good enough” razor.

I keep a Gillette Venus Swirl razor in my gym bag at all times, so I never find myself in a hairy situation. The FLEXIBALL technology is essential for getting all those hard to reach places and curvier parts (like the extra tricky knees), especially if you’re running a little behind before class. If you want to try the Gillette Venus Swirl for yourself, you can pick one up at your local Walgreens. I also tried the Moisturizing Shower & Shave Cream for the first time (smells so good!!!!) and highly recommend it.

3. Go in with a game plan! Another insecurity that creeps up on me is feeling like a fish out of water in the gym. If I’m not heading to a class where the instructor is going to lead us through a great workout, it can feel overwhelming to see all the gym equipment and not even know where to start. Sometimes I have an idea of what I want to do, and I freeze up and forget it all when I get there. I’ve started printing out workouts that I’ve found online or writing down a plan recommended to me by a trainer friend. Going in with a plan, in print, ensures that I walk into the gym feeling confident that I know what I’m doing.

4. Bring noise canceling headphones. My last piece of advice for dealing with insecurities in the gym is to tune everything out. I promise you; everyone is paying attention to their own workout. No one is thinking or looking at you, even if it feels that way! I know that is easier said than done. When I’m working out by myself, I like to use noise canceling headphones so I can tune everything and everyone out. It’s the best way to “get in the zone.” Once those endorphins start pumping, with the right playlist blasting in your headphones, you will feel your absolute best self!

Thank you Gillette Venus for sponsoring this post.