Nadezhda Grishaeva: fitness is welcoming

When launching a fitness club, few people think about the anxieties people feel when visiting gyms. Sometimes, a fitness center seems to the average individual as an intimidating place they're not meant to be part of, and some are concerned about evaluating glances and judgments. It's necessary to take into account the psychological aspects of potential visitors to make their gym experience as comfortable as possible. Nadezhda Grishaeva, the founder of Anvil Fitness Club Moscow, told Sostav about the unexpected sides and nuances of the fitness world.

Understanding gym-related fears

In English, there's a term, gymphobia, which literally means fear of the gym. Another less common term is jimtimidation, a blend of 'gym' (meaning hall) and 'intimidation' — it It's about the anxiety a person feels about entering a fitness club, worried they'll be the odd one out, attracting skewed glances. Jimphobia is one of the reasons why individuals are hesitant to engage in fitness activities. Often, a fitness center appears to many as some inaccessible place they're not meant to be part of.

Before we define and understand gymphobia's roots, it's crucial to differentiate it from gymnophobia. This fear, too, is prevalent among clients and deters them from attending wellness clubs. Yet, it's a distinct fear — gymnophobia is the dread of nudity, the anxiety over being seen naked or undressed.

Many harbor complex feelings towards their body and nudity. People's fear levels vary, influenced by different contexts. Some might dread public nudity, like in gym changing rooms, while others might be uncomfortable with the sight of others' nudity. Numerous factors, including religious beliefs, past traumas, or body shame, can influence one's reluctance to be seen naked or to view nudity.

Addressing nudity fears is challenging but beneficial for mental well-being and self-confidence. At Anvil Club, how have we tackled this issue? We've installed individual enclosed shower stalls, offering a space not just for showering but also for changing in privacy. Our king-sized showers were designed for absolute visitor comfort.

For gymnophobia, experts suggest practicing mirror exercises, where you observe and accept your naked reflection. Interestingly, Anvil boasts over a thousand mirrors, not just for self-acceptance but also due to a common trait among bodybuilders: narcissism, which I'll discuss later.

Returning to jimphobia, this fear stems from various concerns:

• uncertainty about gym routines, how to execute exercises correctly, and appropriate behavior, often seen in newcomers;
• Self-comparison with surrounding individuals, particularly professional athletes;
• The impression of being observed, discussed, or judged by others.

Conquering Gym Fears

For a new gym-goer, many aspects of the gym can seem intimidating. Fitness equipment can seem as advanced as electric cars. Initial hesitations are common when trying something new. It's common to question if they're dressed correctly, might look silly, or will manage the session. This is a normal part of trying new experiences. Remember, even Arnold Schwarzenegger started as a beginner. Every fitness enthusiast was once a novice.

I recommend dedicating the first few sessions to familiarizing yourself with the gym. Consider working with a personal trainer. Personal training has proven benefits. Familiarity breeds comfort. Consistent attendance reduces gym anxiety.

Not understanding how to operate machines is a typical newbie concern. A simple remedy is an introductory tour. Don't hesitate to ask for assistance from trainers. We provide support for first-timers at Anvil.

Another source of intimidation is social comparison. Noticing someone lifting heavy weights or a bodybuilder's pose might trigger self-comparison. These comparisons can have negative effects. It's best to focus on your own journey.

A third common gym fear is feeling observed. Most people are too focused on their workouts to notice others. If you feel judged, remember that it reflects more on the judger than on you. Let go of these concerns.

Most gyms provide introductory sessions. Join group classes like Pilates or yoga to get familiar and socialize. A modern gym is not just for exercise but also a place for comfort and socializing. Don't let jimphobia deter you. Join us at Anvil and embrace your fitness journey.

Dealing with Gym Narcissism

Know someone who's overly self-assured in their fitness abilities? What about those who can't handle criticism? Ever noticed someone who's loud or seeks attention in the gym? These are signs of sports narcissism.

It involves arrogance, lack of consideration for others, and a need for admiration. While some level of fitness focus is positive, obsession can be detrimental. Balancing one's gym behavior is key to a healthy fitness lifestyle.

Narcissism should not be confused with genuine self-appreciation. It's more apt to describe sports narcissists as individuals obsessed with their physical prowess, yet this obsession is akin to an addiction. They are infatuated by an idealized version of themselves, which serves as a shield against their underlying feelings of inadequacy, shame, and insecurity. Do fitness clubs have their share of narcissists? Indeed, there are.

For a well-rounded individual, physical and mental well-being are aligned, as the saying goes: A sound body houses a sound mind. Dealing with phobias or narcissistic tendencies might require professional help. Thus, consulting a psychologist and engaging in personal therapy can be a valuable complement to regular gym visits.