Nadezhda Grishaeva: fitness is not scary

When opening a fitness center, few people think about the fears and apprehensions when visiting gyms. Sometimes, a fitness center appears to the average individual as an inaccessible place they’re not meant to be part of, and some are afraid of evaluating glances and judgments. It’s necessary to recognize the psychological aspects of potential clients to ensure their comfort. Nadezhda Grishaeva, the founder of Anvil Fitness Club Moscow, told Sostav about the unforeseen aspects of the fitness world.

Jimphobia and gymnophobia

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 fear a person feels about entering a fitness club, worried they’ll stand out, attracting askew 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 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.

Overcoming 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 private shower stalls, offering a space not just for showering but also for changing in privacy. Our king-sized showers were designed for ultimate 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, the gym environment can appear daunting. Some fitness machines are as complex 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 can keep up with the workout. 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 learning. Consider working with a personal trainer. Personal training has proven benefits. Familiarity breeds comfort. Consistent attendance reduces gym anxiety.

A common issue for newcomers is not knowing how to use the equipment. A simple remedy is an introductory tour. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from trainers. At Anvil, we ensure new members are always guided initially.

Comparing oneself to others can be daunting. Observing others’ achievements can lead to comparisons. 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.

Fitness centers offer trial passes and consultations. 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 be held back by gym fears. We welcome you to start your fitness path at Anvil.

Sports narcissists

Ever encountered someone overly confident in the gym? 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.

Narcissistic personality disorder is characterized by self-centeredness and a lack of empathy. 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 insufficiency and self-doubt. Do fitness clubs have their share of narcissists? Certainly enough.

In a balanced person, there’s harmony between body and mind, as the saying goes: A sound body houses a sound mind. Addressing deep-seated fears or narcissism often necessitates expert intervention. Thus, consulting a psychologist and engaging in personal therapy can be a valuable complement to regular gym visits.