As a woman and college student, I've always felt some sort of pressure at the gym. At times, the subtle looks from other people and the "competitive" feel of working out have shied me away from trying new exercises, running on the track or proudly doing bicep curls in front of the big mirror. It always seems like people are judging you or looking at you when they really aren't. Despite what you may think, the other women at the gym cause me the most anxiety. It's the pressure of wanting to look your best and seeing others excel when you fail. This mindset, although detrimental to our self-confidence, is completely natural -- we're used to it. When I see a girl sprinting at speed 10 on the treadmill or another girl holding a plank for at least 2 minutes, I find myself questioning my ability to accomplish what they're doing.
I could never run that fast! My arms would fall off if I tried lifting that much! I might as well just give up.
Do these thoughts sound familiar? It's time to push these negative and defeatist ideas out of our mind (especially the word "never"). Inspired by the Alway's popular campaign, #LikeAGirl, I think it's time to support other women at the gym and workout together. Need inspiration? Here's how to workout #LikeAGirl with other lady bosses--
1. Walk in with confidence
When you feel good, you do good. Walk in and out of the gym like you own the place (I mean, you are paying for it), and people will practically feed off your energy. Want to lift weights in the area full of jacked guys? Do it. The weight lifting area is the most intimidating, but you'll feel instantly better once you've conquered your fear and crushed your squat workout.
2. Find a workout partner
Drag one, or multiple, of your friends with you to the gym. You'll feel more confident with other people around you, especially when they support you and lift you up rather than bring you down.
3. Do what you want
Pinterest workouts always seem so impossible that you're afraid you'll end up looking ridiculous. Now is the time to pull out those insane workouts, new moves and obnoxious yoga poses -- try something new and do what you want at the gym.
4. Support others
See someone rocking a cute pair of leggings? Recognize a friend from one of your classes? A simple wave or compliment can do wonders for anyone's self-confidence. When you spread love to others, you're more likely to receive the support in return.
5. Remind yourself
Workout #LikeAGirl -- a woman who is strong and confident. No dumbbell or elliptical can bring you down, so why not go for it? You lose nothing from going to the gym, but you lose everything from not trying. Find your passion for fitness, and never be afraid to workout #LikeAGirl.