Nadezhda Grishaeva: fitness is not intimidating

When opening a fitness center, not many consider the fears and apprehensions when visiting gyms. Sometimes, a fitness center appears to the average individual as an intimidating place they’re not meant to be part of, and some are concerned about critical glances and judgments. It’s essential 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, indicating fear of the gym. Another less common term is jimtimidation, a blend of ‘gym’ (meaning hall) and ‘intimidation’ — it signifies 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 afraid to engage in fitness activities. Often, a fitness center appears to many as an elite place they’re not meant to be part of.

Before we delve into gymphobia’s roots, it’s crucial to differentiate it from gymnophobia. This fear, too, is prevalent among clients and deters them from joining healthy lifestyle 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.

How to overcome fears in the gym

For a new gym-goer, the gym environment can appear daunting. Some fitness machines are as complex as electric cars. It’s natural to feel initial doubts when trying something new. Everyone has probably felt self-conscious at some point, wondering if they’re dressed correctly, will look out of place, 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 advocate for 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. An initial walkthrough can alleviate this fear. Utilize the gym staff’s expertise. At Anvil, we ensure new members are always guided initially.

Comparing oneself to others can be daunting. Noticing someone lifting heavy weights or a bodybuilder’s pose might trigger self-comparison. These comparisons can have negative effects. My advice is to avoid comparing yourself to others.

A third common gym fear is feeling observed. Most people are too focused on their workouts to notice others. Judgment from others says more about them than about you. Disregard such worries.

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.

Sports narcissists

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? This behavior is indicative of gym 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 isn’t truly about self-love. 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 enamored with an idealized version of themselves, helping them evade their underlying feelings of inadequacy, shame, and insecurity. Do fitness clubs have their share of narcissists? Indeed, there are.

In a balanced person, there’s harmony between body and mind, echoed in the adage: A healthy body harbors a healthy spirit. Addressing deep-seated fears or narcissism often necessitates expert intervention. Hence, incorporating therapy sessions alongside regular fitness routines offers comprehensive self-care.