Feeling Embarrassed at the Gym..

Posts: 197
2/19/13 10:39 P

Another friend and I had a good laugh at this: we both experienced getting to "cross over" at our gym. You know how you start out just doing cardio and eye "the other side" of the gym with all the buff, skinny, and built people working out? And then at some point we get brave and venture to "the other side" ourselves, take the plunge, and become one of "them." We might not become skinny, buff, or built but we can hold our own and it's an awesome feeling. It takes time, maybe 3-4 months or so, but it's inevitable when you keep it up. I think it's just a matter of not letting the embarrassment and inferiority get to you. Push through and then you can become one of "them."

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2/19/13 5:26 P

I used to be embarrased to go to the gym or even run outside because of my fitness level. I was too big to try and run on a treadmill next to someone really fit. I now attend a boxing gym where most people are ridiculously fit! Instead of feeling embarassed I use them as my motivation. I like to think that they come here and look amazing. That means that if I keep coming here Ill look like them eventually. Its kept me going. I also try to avoid looking in the mirrors while working out. I caught a glimps one time and I looked absolutly ridiculous. Which at this gym is a good thing. Everyone tries their best every time. Now my mentality is if your not here to get your sweat on and try your hardest then you dont belong here. It seems to work for me!

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2/19/13 3:06 P

I pay attention. To others while working out. For me it is a way to make the changes to my routine as I progress. I see folks of all sizes doing there thing, and make mental notes on how I can do the same. I go to a very busy gym, located in the mall. I am not judging anyone and hopefully no one is judging me. I have confidence. I would not be worries about others judging you as everyone at the gum is there for a reason.

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12/5/12 10:44 A

I know what you mean. When I first joined the gym, I thought everybody would be looking at me. I remember I wanted to do my abs exercise, I took a mat and realised that the space for it was surrounded by the weight machines on one, and elliptical trainers on the other side, so basically everybody could see me. I thought I would die. At the beginning, I went to the gym very early in the morning or very late at night when there are less people (at least worked for my gym), but then I realised I never really look at other people when I am there. And I think I built up some confidence as well.

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12/2/12 1:01 P

I have exactly the same problem. My embarrassment is one of the biggest reasons why I give up on myself and my progress every time.

My best advice for you is to to keep your eye on the prize. Stay focused on that beautiful wedding gown!

Good luck!

~Amanda

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12/2/12 11:09 A

DietFriend, that is a great point of view. I think we think others are judging us when they're probably just thinking about their own routine. I don't notice others when I go to the gym, so I'm sure no one is noticing me. Our insecurities skew our perceptions too often.

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12/2/12 10:57 A

Awesome message - I Love It!

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12/2/12 10:07 A

my accountability buddy was having this issue.. and i ran across this on a blog. every time i read it, it makes me tear up. it's hard to make the first steps!
"Hey, Fat Girl.
Yes, you. The one feigning to not see me when we cross paths on the
running track. The one not even wearing sports gear, breathing heavy.
You’re slow, you breathe hard and your efforts at moving forward make
you cringe.
You cling shyly to the furthest corridor, sometimes making larger loops
on the gravel ring by the track just so you’re not on it. You sweat so
much that your hair is all wet. You rarely stay for more than 20 minutes
at a time, and you look exhausted when you leave to go back home. You
never talk to anyone. I’ve got something I’d like to say to you.
You are awesome.
If you’d look me in the eye only for an instant, you would notice the
reverence and respect I have for you. The adventure you have started is
tremendous; it leads to a better health, to renewed confidence and to a
brand new kind of freedom. The gifts you will receive from running will
far exceed the gigantic effort it takes you to show up here, to face
your fears and to bravely set yourself in motion, in front of others.
You have already begun your transformation. You no longer accept this
physical state of numbness and passivity. You have taken a difficult
decision, but one that holds so much promise. Every hard breath you take
is actually a tad easier than the one before, and every step is ever so
slightly lighter. Each push forward leaves the former person you were
in your wake, creating room for an improved version, one that is
stronger, healthier and forward-looking, one who knows that anything is
possible.
You’re a hero to me. And, if you’d take off the blaring headphones and
put your head up for more than a second or two, you would notice that
the other runners you cross, the ones that probably make you feel so
inadequate, stare in awe at your determination. They, of all people,
know best where you are coming from. They heard the resolutions of so
many others, who vowed to pick up running and improve their health,
“starting next week”. Yet, it is YOU who runs alongside, who digs from
deep inside to find the strength to come here, and to come back again.
You are a runner, and no one can take that away from you. You are
relentlessly moving forward. You are stronger than even you think, and
you are about to be amazed by what you can do. One day, very soon, maybe
tomorrow, you’ll step outside and marvel at your capabilities. You will
not believe your own body, you will realize that you can do this. And a
new horizon will open up for you. You are a true inspiration.
I bow to you.
Dead last finish is greater than did not finish, which trumps DID NOT START."

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12/2/12 9:44 A

Most people are so focused on their own routines, or just themselves, they don't notice any one else. If they do, it's to notice that someone looks better, or to wonder if your routine would work for them! I've been going to various gyms since 1981.

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12/1/12 8:23 P

I find that wearing headphones makes me feel like I am in my own space and pay less attention to others around me. Going during off hours also helps. And I feel proud to be there at all!

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12/1/12 8:06 P

Hmmm. I figger if I take my glasses off, they can see me about as well as I can see them. Probably not true, but it works for me... ;)

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12/1/12 3:06 P

I was never embarrassed at the gym because I go at the free less clumsy hours, I am always alone in the gym so I do not seem to see too many folks at the time. If rush hours ever meet me there, I round up what I gat to do and leave. I am very crowd conscious.

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12/1/12 11:26 A

Been going to my gym for two weeks now. At first it was a little daunting, but I realized that we are all there for the same reason, to get healthy, and fit, but most of all to stay that way. Living with a family member who is a professional model, Iearned early on that the people with the most body image issues are at times the skinniest. I may not be a size 4, and may never be, but I'll be proud and content getting to my goal weight, and now I'm on my way!

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12/1/12 8:29 A

THE FIRST TIME I EVER WENT TO THE GYM SOLO AND WHEN I WAS AT MY BIGGEST I WAS EMBARRASSED, BUT I GOT OVER THE FEAR BY REMEMBERING THAT I AM DOING THIS FOR ME..IVE BEEN GOING SOLO FOR THE LAST 7 YRS NOW...

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11/30/12 8:37 P

I recently joined a pilates studio. The instructors are so helpful, so motivating, so non-judgmental. They pull together great workouts and are quick to show the most effective form and techniques. I truly feel comfortable and absolutely love this place!! (Yes - there are some great people who love to help people get into shape regardless of their athletic ability!)

With that said, I have tried many gyms, etc. over the past several years. I have not always felt this way. So, my advice would be to give yourself a break and find what works best for you. If you don't feel 100% comfortable, try another place or find different workout options - before you quit going altogether.

I am so grateful that I love what I do where I do it. It makes working out fun, not stressful - even when it can be very challenging!

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11/30/12 8:35 P

looking like a fool @ the gym.. hmm.. Well, when I was at my heaviest, I joined the gym. I got on a treadmill and well, after about 5 minutes, I became distracted and lost my footing and went flying off of the back of it, slammed onto my face/rug burn on knees, and hands, etc. omg.. I was soooo embarrassed. All these skinny people came running over saying "are you OKAY???".. I kept going, though.. and about 1 1/2 years later a gal came up to me. She made my day when she said "I can't believe how well you have done. I remember the day you wiped out on the treadmill" I wouldn't even recognize you as the same person". Keep going.. don't give up..

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11/30/12 6:23 P

I just had a little victory in this department. I'm pretty big, and am just starting on a solid program. I went 1 mile on the eliptical machine and was feeling pretty darned proud! So I went to one of the trainers at the gym (who looked like he could do one mile in his sleep) and I said, "I need a high five! I just did a mile!" He was great. He high fived me and said, "Great! What's next?" I said "A mile and a quarter." He was very happy. I think most trainers there are pretty jazzed when they see someone making an effort toward health.

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11/30/12 5:20 P

I think this is a vestige of being a teen or middle schooler. We always thought we were out there on display and that people were looking and laughing at our shortcomings--and maybe they were...then. Adults don't treat other adults that way. Get out there and live your life. You have just as much a right to be out there getting your fit on as the skinniest wraithe. Don't let stinking thinking stop you from getting the most out of your opportunities.

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11/30/12 5:08 P

no. u paid the same amt of fees, as other members (fit, or not fit), to do something gd for urself. so, only there is no need to feel "embarrassed", but on the contrary, u should feel really really proud of urself for making it happen for urself!!!!

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11/30/12 1:42 P

nope

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11/30/12 1:32 P

Ugh! embarrassed, but that's at first. Once I get into a daily routine, I feel like I belong. Only problem is staying in the routine!

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11/30/12 11:26 A

The only thing I think about other people at the gym, no matter what they look like or what they're doing, is "Good for us!"

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11/30/12 9:50 A

I need to attend a gym, especially during these winter months. But I too am scared and self conscious about people looking at me. My husband thinks a gym is a waste of money, but I know there are some out there where you don't need to commit to them, just to yourself. I would love to go to a gym, and be able to work out on things that I cannot afford to have in my own home. Good for you all for going to the gym, that's a step in the right direction. Don't worry about anyone else.

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11/29/12 8:40 P

I hate all the mirrors at the gym. I feel like everyone's watching me already and then having the mirrors all around makes me more embarrassed. I'm sure it's all in my head, but it's still hard seeing people half my size looking buff when I'm working myself to death and not noticing any results.

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11/29/12 4:52 P

I felt the same way when I started my water aerobic class, however I just made it a point to go up and introduce myself to all the members of the class(maybe in the gym, you could just speake to the members close to you) and it was great. Most people wwlcome a friendly face.

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11/29/12 3:51 P

A few years ago I was comfortable at the gym, but recently I find I am having issues getting back into the routine and feeling ok in my body at the gym. I know it is something I must get over and ignore the looks or stares from the smaller women at the gym. I feel that I am doing the exercises correctly it is just the lack of stamina right now. The hardest part is just getting up and driving into the gym knowing there are numerous people there.

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11/29/12 12:57 P

I would not worry too much about any side glances from others. If you're concerned about doing the exercises "wrong", work with a personal trainer for the first few sessions. Alternatively, if you're using a book, photocopy the exercises and put them into a 3-ring binder. Take the binder with you and refer to it when you work out.

Do be sure to show proper etiquette. Improper etiquette upsets people. Here's a sparkpeople article for some tips:
Proper Gym Etiquette
How to Play Well with Others While Working Out
-- By Leanne Beattie, Health & Fitness Writer
http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_articles.asp?id=929

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11/29/12 12:46 P

I felt a little embarassed but I got over it quickly. I work out now 4-5 days weekly at the gym for 40 - 60 min. I play racquetball daily for at least 30 min with my husband, usually 45-60 min., bicycle/stairmaster for 15 min at least, treadmill 15 - 30 min., abdominal crunches at least 3 sets of 15 ea. @ 30 - 50 lbs., and lifting some weights (light). I have been following this routine for the past 2-3 months, it varies as you can see. I have lost 25 lbs and can see my body toning up. I will continue to go to the gym, even thru the holidays (as much as I can). It has been a slow process but it is progress and that is what matters for my health. Embarassment is not a factor anymore.

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11/29/12 8:43 A

If you don't want anyone to think badly of you or criticize you, don't think anything. But especially don't do anything.

Leaders are loners. No matter what you are doing, there will always be those that are ready and quick to criticize. You know you are a "grown-up" when you can ignore them.

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11/28/12 10:15 P

With 183 responses to this thread, this must be a hot topic!

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11/28/12 7:33 P

Even though I feel uncomfortable at the gym too, it has been my experience that most people at the gym are so focused on their workout that they rarely notice me. Thankfully because I don't want to be noticed until I'm at least at 50% of my goal!

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11/28/12 5:24 P

Feeling embarrassed at the Gym?

Don't.

Just don't.

You are taking care of yourself, and that is what is so beautiful.

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11/28/12 1:05 P

I know exactly how you feel....we all go through the same process of feeling uncomfortable!
I still make sure I go to the gym and do my thing. We as women are very judgemental even though you try not to be,we put a lot of pressure on ourselfs. In reality no one cares what your doing because we are all there for the same reason to be healthy!

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11/28/12 1:00 P

Well sometimes I used to be embarrassed at the pool, not usually at the gym though. But then I realized that I was swimming a lot more laps then others who weren't there, were just lazing on the side, or standing in the shallow end, so that helped! A lot of laps for someone my age who can't even swim that great!!! Hahaha and the best part was that the minutes spent just treading water at the ends, catching my breath, was burning more calories plus it helped me sleep later...I now miss doing that since we moved, but hope to start up again as soon as I can afford it in the new year.

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11/28/12 12:10 P

I have to agree with all of the posters here. Whether I was obese like I was before, or fit like I am now, whenever I've seen an overweight person exercising, I have always thought "good for you!" and was rooting for their success in my heart. I also agree that people are very much into their own drama and spend little time focused on others. So just know that you are safe, and doing the most profound act of self-care for your body when you exercise - and celebrate that!

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11/28/12 11:55 A

I totally know how you feel. I am often very embarrassed of my weight in the gym. The two worst moments for me are the moments that are near the mirrors: stretching after the workout and in classes. When I'm stretching, my belly is so big that it gets in the way of a lot of my stretches and I'm floppy and flabby all over the place. It's hard to look at yourself in the mirror and see out of the corner of your eye a skinny girl eyeing you up! Then in classes, I am often the fattest person in the room. That's hard. I feel like an idiot and often wonder if others think I'm out of place.

Then I think: "why do I care?!" I wish I didn't!

The best I feel is when I'm taking my personal training lesson. I do boxing lessons once or twice a week. Now, there is no special room for boxing, so I'm right there out in the open. Because it's boxing, a lot of people walk by and check us out. For some reason, I don't mind that at all. I feel strong and confident when I'm boxing. (Even though I might well look like a dork, but I don't have time to look in the mirror!!)

Moral of my story is: don't look in the mirror! haha

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11/28/12 11:31 A

I used to feel uncomfortable when I started going to the college gym I went to. But, after a few times, I started feeling better. There were still times up to my last week of college where I would feel a bit weird or something, but I always reminded myself that my uncomfortable feeling wasn't because anyone said anything to me, it was just what I was imagining. Most people aren't focusing on others when at the gym anyways,

I haven't gotten a new membership in my new town yet, mostly because I've been doing fine with at home exercises, but I have considered getting back into the gym routine, I'm sure I'll feel similar feeling again, but will know its just in my head.

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11/27/12 6:30 P

I have never encountered anything but a positive, supportive attitude from gym employees, instructors and other gym members at our local ymca. There are people of all ages, weights & fitness levels exercising there. Chances are, people are too busy doing their own thing or focused on their own workout to watch what someone else is doing or not doing.
Don't forget, some of those really fit "gym rats" that you see might be sparkpeople who have lost pounds and gotten fit and well remember what it was like to be heavier and not completely comfortable at the gym.

Edited by: AZMOM1 at: 11/27/2012 (18:34)

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11/27/12 11:50 A

I look like a drunk orangutan when I do Zumba but that's never stopped me! I was nervous about looking silly when I first starting attending classes but I soon realized every else was too focused on what they were doing to notice me (unless I ran over them, which has happened). Don't let worrying about what other people think stand in the way of your goals, if someone at the gym has time to dwell on what others are doing they are not working out hard enough!

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11/27/12 9:13 A

If you like the options available at the gym then you should go there and not feel embarassed. If you saw me at the gym, I might be one of the people who intimidate you but I want you to know how inspiring I find everyone at my gym. I am a confessed gym rat, going most days and taking group classes. When I first joined my gym, I felt too fat and uncoordinated to take the classes, but I am so glad I got over it. I now work out religiously, have lost 15 pounds and am addicted to daily exercise. I find the new overweight people to be even more inspiring than the thin fit ones. We are all there to better our health and I applaud you for that. Let's face it, most people are too absorbed in their own worlds to pay much attention to what others are doing anyway, Keep up the good work!

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11/27/12 12:21 A

I worked at a local gym for a year and a half and the feeling is very common. When people came in to potentially sign up for a membership, they would often ask when the least busy hours were and make a comment about not liking to be around other people when working out.

Also, as someone who has felt this same way in the past, I have thought about it and come to realize that I think EVERYONE in the gym is absorbed in their own body- whether because they are self-conscious or just gazing at themselves in the mirrors- and not really paying attention to other people. And if they are, seriously? Who does that? They're the ones with the problem if they're going to go to the gym and be dumb like that.

Lastly, YAY for all of us and our bodies - past, present, and future!

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11/26/12 8:12 P

I think we all feel uncomfortable about ourselves at the gym. That is why we are there, to feel better about ourselves. Someone there is probably wishing they were you. Don't let it keep you away. That is only an excuse and excuses won't get you anywhere.

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11/26/12 6:32 P

Keep going and you will start feeling great about going. At first (when I first lost weight last year), I felt the same way, but I kept on going and learned that people were really focusing on themselves and focusing on their workouts. I start walking/jogging on the treadmill, trying some classes, and after a while I started feeling confident being around other motivated people and made friends in the classes!

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11/26/12 12:49 P

You are at the gym and not home. What could be more important than that?

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11/26/12 6:44 A

Sadly I am avoiding mirrors. On Black Friday I saw my reflection at the mall and quickly went home instead of doing something about it. Much too ashamed.

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11/26/12 2:13 A

Hey HEZZYLUNA!

"Does anyone ever feel this way?" Probably only all of us. Don't worry about being "the fat girl in the corner" at the gym. I think a lot of people there will see their former selves in you & will just be happy for you that you're there and making an effort. I think I'd be much more worried about being "the fat girl" at Burger King, ordering three Whopper meals.

Don't sweat the small stuff, just sweat.
: )

158 Days since:  Starting 10+ minutes a day of exercise SparkStreak! : )

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11/26/12 2:00 A

Hello to "HELLOWORLD11",

I haven't yet read what you were responding to. I was going to check out your SparkPage, but it looks like you don't have one (yet--?). So, let me be the first to say, if no one has told you this before: You are OFFICIALLY deemed to be VERY COOLl! (At least in my book.) I loved your comments here (especially #s 5 & 6); all great thoughts for anyone! the other reason you're so cool is that you didn't let your loss of a leg get you down. If you think about it, you're like the bionic woman (There was no reference to gender in your comment, so I'm assuming that you're a woman, only because most people on SP are. Actually, most people are.) or the six million dollar man. (I have no idea if you're old enough or have watched enough Nick at Nite or whatever retro TV to get that reference.) And, I'd say, you're much cooler than the former governor of California or any quasi robot guy he's ever played in any movie. I think it's especially cool that you've grown to be comfortable with yourself (and why not pass it on to others who are new at the new leg thing?), especially when you started out as a shy person.
Kudos to your Coolness!
: )

158 Days since:  Starting 10+ minutes a day of exercise SparkStreak! : )

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11/25/12 9:18 P

I've really enjoyed reading everyone's comments!

I totally understand feeling embrassed at the gym. My leg was amputated when I was a teenager because I had bone cancer. The lower half of my current prosthetic (knee down) is all metal, it actually kind of looks like a robot leg. The upper half is plastic. It is not real looking at all. So people do, literally, stare. Not all the time, some do people have better manners than that :) And honestly a lot of times I can't do things the same way someone with two real legs would so yes that would be another reason to stare. Before I lost my leg I was already a shy & introverted person - it took me a long time to not feel like a 'freak'. I think all of these have been mentions before but I think they are worth repeating! Over the years these are things I've done:

1) Go with someone
2) If you don't know how something works ask someone who works at the gym - I think at most gyms they are supposed to answer questions!
3) Listen to music with earbuds (if that is safe to do) - for me music has a way of drowning out
my thoughts. And it's my own thoughts that are making me feel bad, not others!
4) Keep going because the more times you go the more you'll feel like you belong.
5) If people really are staring, smile!, and then tell yourself they are staring because you are SO BEAUTIFUL they can't look away. You do not have the ability to know what other people are thinking so why not give them the thoughts you want them to be having :)
6) Remind yourself that you don't judge people so it is likely 99% of the people around you are not judging you.
7) Keep track of what you do. Being able to see progress (whether it is weight loss, length of time you can do something, or increased strength) makes you feel good about yourself which I think makes you care a lot less what other people are thinking.

Best wishes to you!

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11/25/12 5:24 P

I always feel awkward in a gym setting, whether I"m in top physical shape, or overweight. I always feel clutzy and unfamiliar with the equipment, even after getting into a routine, and I can't stand running into people I know (especially kids). I am a teacher in a small small town.
My husband and I have devised an exercise room in our 2 bedroom condo (empty nesters), and enjoy the trails just down the street from our home. I don't even bother with the gym now. We do yoga together, exercise DVDs, kettle balls, dumbells, bodyweight exercises, walking, hiking, swimming (summer), jumprope, and meditation, all in relative privacy, away from "the gym".

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11/25/12 4:25 P

There are other people at the gym?

Very honestly, I'm in my own little world up there. It's like I'm all alone.

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11/25/12 4:15 P

I do sometimes feel out of place when doing a new routine in a new section of the gym. The free weight area was a no-man's land for me. I got past this by going there first with a friend so that there were two of us there. This alone brings comfort to you and somehow this seems to make it OK for others as well. Anyway, once you have done it the next time is easier and the time after that and so on until you are the regular. I admit it took a while, but now the other regulars talk to me or give the glad-to-see-you-here-sweating-with-us grin when I go in. And you will too. You only need courage for the first time.

Posts: 81
11/25/12 3:17 P

Just remember we all started out at the gym slowly- smile and dont feel embarassed feel empowered!! Ask for help at the desk and if you can get a trainer a few times it helps too,, BE PROUD

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11/25/12 2:53 P

If you prefer belonging to a gym to exercising on your own, you have to toughen your attitude. You've paid your money, you belong just as much as anyone else... the heck with anyone who is rude, or makes you feel uncomfortable... if they are really rude, complain to the staff. You're there for yourself, for your goals, and don't let anyone get in the way!

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11/25/12 12:15 P

That's exactly why I don't belong to a gym! I exercise for ME...not to be the fodder for someone's gossip mill.

You don't need a gym membership--you just need yourself & the will to workout! Grab some tennis shoes & go for a walk. Or walk around your local mall if the streets are too cold, icy, snowy, etc.

Buy a jump rope & some hand weights. Invest in a treadmill (they don't have to be super-expensive ones to help you exercise!)...or a cheap exercise bike (Walmart has one's for around $100).

Make it happen for YOU--and don't give in to the pressure to be like every other gerbil on the wheel...you don't need "trendy" exercise clothes & a gym membership. You just need dedication & to get your butt moving! :)

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11/25/12 6:30 A

Whenever I see a new person at our gym, I think, "Wow! Someone else got on the bandwagon and decided to do something about their health and fitness! Great! Now, maybe we can start a fad and get everyone in our country to get into shape!" I know I am dreaming...Did you know that only 30% of the American population exercise 3-4 days a week?

I have also learned the hard way that not everyone is outgoing and friendly like me. I simply enjoy being around people. So I have had to curb my natural enthusiasm and gradually welcome new people to our fitness club gradually and not overwhelm them with my gregarious outlook on life.

I go to the gym early in the morning and am usually done by 7 AM. Often I am half asleep upon arrival and am focused on the task at hand and getting through the exercise. On those days, when I don't want to be there and grunt my way through the workout, I am so focused on trying to complete what I came to accomplish that I will talk to as few as possible, and would totally ignore someone new.

So, forget about what others are thinking. You won't know until you ask them, and many would be offended if you did that. Gradually, as you see familiar faces over months of attending regularly, you will make some new friends, and be glad that you did!

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11/25/12 6:13 A

People who worry about what others think of them might be surprised to learn how little attention others even pay to them. They are focused on their own agenda.

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11/24/12 11:13 A

Great quote from sweetwildcherry. Thanks!

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11/23/12 6:10 P

I work in an out-patient clinic that has a gym with equipment used for rehab and general gym users. My favorite gym users are the little retired folk that have been patients, years ago and come in every week, if not every day to keep their "body going and strong". I am so inspired by them! They come to the gym rain or shine, and keep up with their activity. That encourages me. It's encouraging to see gym users getting stronger, losing weight, or simply keeping themselves active--whatever their goals.

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11/23/12 6:07 P

“Those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind.”

Who cares what people at the gym think! It's your health and if people are judging you because your getting healthy...well frankly... F#@% them =P

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11/22/12 12:00 P

Way to lose 40 pounds! Now that is tasty revenge!

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11/21/12 2:33 P

Don't let what other people think of you to deter your want for progress. We are only on this earth to serve each other. No one really cares about appearances. Rather, look upon it as those folks are actually cheering you on from the inside! (Kind of like the speaker imagining the audience naked! !)

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11/21/12 11:08 A

Remember you can do anything you set your mind to.
Commit to it. One tiny step at a time to live healthier physically and mentally!!

I’m that person…Apologizing right up front! www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_
individual.asp?blog_id=5126935

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11/21/12 10:57 A

I can't say I'm embarrassed at the gym but very uncomfortable if there are a lot of people there. I used to belong to a 24-hr gym and would only go when there were a few people in the building. I worked part-time then and 2:00-4:00 in the afternoon was a great time to go.
Now, I go at 4:30am, when the gym opens. Very few people there at that hour. By the time I'm leaving at 6:00am there's a number of people coming in and I'm always so relieved to be done and leaving.

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