Dear Reader,

You are already on the right track. Exercising will help you lose weight and maintain your weight once you’ve reached your goal. That’s it for your pep talk. You know what you need to do, but want some suggestions on how, or, more specificall y, where to do it.

Alice knows what you mean about health clubs. They can be frightening. If you have already joined a gym, make an appointment with a trainer who can show you how to use the machines and help you devise a workout plan. Clubs should employ professionals w ho will fitness test you and show you the ropes, free of charge ... and full of understanding about gymphobia. When you know where to go and what to do when you walk into the gym, you may not feel so threatened.

Alice has found that the fitness centers at YMCAs, YWCAs, and local community centers tend to be more down to earth and less intimidating. Another option may be a college in your neighborhood. Some colleges offer community members use of their faciliti es for a nominal fee. Don’t forget about exercising outside: running, biking, hiking, and blading immediately come to mind. Fresh air does the soul good.

Do you play any sports? Or, have you in the past? If so, you could join a team or league, such as softball, basketball, or tennis. A team may be intimidating at first, but you will probably get back into the swing of it quickly, and your team members w ill undoubtedly be helpful and supportive.

Regardless of whether you are going to a gym for the first time, or to your first day of a new job, you will feel self-conscious. Try not to let these feelings hold you back. Just like with work or school, you start out not knowing many people and not being sure of what to do, but, within a short time, all that changes. Going to a gym, a team practice, or to the park to run won’t be too much different. Think of your “gymtimidation” reduction efforts as a part of your entire workout— the more you stick with it, the easier it will get. And remember, health clubs are places to get and stay healthy—not beauty pageants or Olympic competitions. Gym’ers who disagree might consider shaving a few pounds off their egos.

Finally, for now, tell yourself that working out is something you’d really like to do. Schedule it on your calendar and grab a partner—you can encourage and motivate each other.

Alice

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