A few weeks ago, I sat down with a woman for a consultation. As we talked about her goals and fears, she shared something that struck me deeply. “I need to lose weight before I can even start going to the gym,” she said, her voice heavy with doubt and anxiety. It wasn’t the first time I’d heard this. In fact, it’s a sentiment echoed by so many women, especially those over 40, who feel that they need to look a certain way before they can even consider stepping foot into a gym.
And that breaks my heart.
The Myth of “Getting Ready” to Get Fit
Let’s get one thing straight: you don’t need to lose weight to start your fitness journey. The idea that you need to be fit before you can start getting fit is a harmful myth. It’s a barrier that keeps too many women from even starting, and it’s based on a belief that you’re not good enough as you are.
The truth is, getting back into fitness—or starting for the first time—can be daunting. The early stages are tough. You’re navigating unfamiliar territory, your body feels like it’s working against you, and every step forward can feel like an uphill battle. That’s why starting is the hardest part. But starting is also where all the magic happens.
The Importance of Support and Accountability
This is where a coach or mentor becomes invaluable. Without guidance, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You start with the best intentions, but when results don’t come quickly or you hit a rough patch, the temptation to quit becomes strong. You might find yourself on that dreaded hamster wheel, where you start, stop, and start again without ever making real progress.
That cycle—the yo-yo effect—is something I’ve seen far too many women go through. They dive into a new routine with excitement, only to fall off the wagon when life gets busy or when they don’t see immediate changes. And then the guilt sets in. “Why can’t I stick to anything?” they ask themselves. The answer is rarely about willpower. It’s about the lack of support and accountability.
A coach isn’t just someone who tells you what exercises to do or what to eat. A coach is someone who believes in you, even when you don’t believe in yourself. They help you navigate the rough patches and celebrate the wins, no matter how small. They hold you accountable in a way that’s compassionate, not punitive. And most importantly, they keep you moving forward, even when you feel like giving up.
Overcoming the Discomfort
If you’re feeling intimidated about starting, here’s some actionable advice to help you overcome that discomfort:
- Start with Small Steps: You don’t have to dive into an intense workout routine from day one. Start with small, manageable changes, like walking more or doing a few minutes of stretching each day. The goal is to build momentum, not to overwhelm yourself.
- Focus on How You Feel, Not Just How You Look: Fitness isn’t just about losing weight. It’s about gaining strength, improving your mood, and taking care of your body. Celebrate the non-scale victories, like sleeping better or having more energy.
- Find Your Tribe: Surround yourself with people who are on a similar journey. Whether it’s a workout buddy, a group class, or an online community, having others to share the experience with can make it less intimidating and more enjoyable.
- Be Kind to Yourself: Remember, it’s okay to struggle. It’s okay to have setbacks. What matters is that you keep going. Treat yourself with the same kindness and patience you would offer a friend.
How Shred 27 Can Help
At Shred 27, we’ve seen these struggles time and time again, and we’ve developed programs to address them. Our mentorship program is designed to offer the guidance and support that’s crucial in those early stages. Whether you’re just starting out or getting back into fitness after a long break, we’re here to help you build habits that stick.
Our Small Group Personal Training memberships are another great option for those who might feel gymtimidation. These sessions are tailored to your needs, offering a more personalized approach in a supportive, encouraging environment. You’ll get the benefits of one-on-one coaching with the added camaraderie of a small group.
The most important thing to remember is this: you don’t have to do it alone. Starting your fitness journey is a brave step, and it’s okay to ask for help along the way. You deserve to feel confident and strong in your body—exactly as you are today. And we’re here to support you every step of the way.
So, let’s break the cycle together. Your journey starts now, not when you’ve lost weight, not when you feel ready—now.