I know this probably sounds stupid, but does anyone else fear going to the gym? Everytime I go there I feel like people are looking at me. I'm sure they aren't but I'm so self conscious. I've been only a few time since being banded. The treadmill is good but I feel like it's not enough. I've heard people saying they love the elliptical but I'm scared I'll look like a fool bouncing around.

I guess I need to just suck it up and go to the gym. If people look they look and maybe when they're looking they're thinking, "wow, good for him for trying to get healthy." I can hope!

You might visit another gym or two. For eample, I wouldn't go in Gold's on a bet .... too many body builders. If you are going to a gym where there is a wide range of clients, there will be others there who are in your situation ... in need of imrpovement instead of just a bunch who are maintaining their looks and condition.

If people look they look and maybe when they're looking they're thinking, "wow, good for him for trying to get healthy." I can hope!

very true.

like parrothead cathy - i don't enjoy a gym that doesn't have a decent sampling of ALL types, but i'm a bit land locked in the country having only 2 choice w/30mins of me.

that said - i would put your ipod/mp3 on & get lost in your own world. i think anyone that would comment or stare at someone actually DOING something about their weight, are persons i wouldn't waste my breath on.

good for you getting out there & good luck on your journey.

I have not gone yet, I did go and sign up. So I am getting closer...

I've had the same fear in the past, and I agree with Cathy. Visit a couple different gyms. I think most places (if not all) will let you have a free day to check out the facilities before you sign up for a membership. Some even offer a consultation with a trainer. This way you can find a place where you feel comfortable to try anything you want. Frankly, if I see too many body builders or women with full-on makeup working out, I know pretty quickly it's not for me!

One specific suggestion: I've been a member at the YMCA in several different cities, and it's always been a great place to work out; good classes, friendly staff, and "normal" people (by which I mean people just looking to get fit and not there to "be seen").

Good luck!

Val

I got guest passes to three gyms in town and tried them each before I made my decision.

I ended up at Gold's Gym because of the equipment, the classes, and not feeling like I didn't belong. Yes, they have their share of bodybuilding meatheads and chickies in spandex, but the people were welcoming and there was a broad variety of body types and ages. I'm now going 4-5 times a week and love it.

It's not always easy to get up the courage to go, but it was worth it. Hope you make it there.

My husband is in the military. Our base is covered with fit people. Our gym is free. The first time i walked in I was nervous,but did my best to look like i owned the place...i've been going M-F and some weekends for 2 months now and all of the employees know me and as well as regular gym goers. The first week I acutally had a guy tap me on myshoulder and tell me to keep up the great work. That I ispire him to keep going even when he doesn't want it. Sure there are times when I'm doing an ab workout on the side of the football field where they are running for PT tests,but that passes over,because no one can fault me for being at the gym...I even have a trainer that offered to train me at no cost...so i guess it pays to look out of place sometimes! lol:thumbup:

Ok I went and did fine, 1 mile on tred mill and 2 mile on bike. felt good and I was there for one hour. I will go 4 days a week.....

Thanks everyone. I went to the gym Thursday and Friday and feel great! So far I'm just walking the treadmill. I put my headphones on and forgot what was around me.

I actually prefer walking outside right now. We have this amazing path that goes along the Erie Canal and it's always just gorgeous...been very humid lately so i haven't been able to walk outside...so i'll do walking tapes inside as well.

As far as the gym goes, I used to like it...even before surgery. HATE the machines but love the classes, especially Latin Cardio! I am very excited to get back to it, but not until i'm cleared..which SHOULD be at my first fill this thursday.

I did try to go a few weeks ago...just to walk. But the treadmill HURT. No i wasn't going at a fast speed or at a big incline...it just hurt me...

1) Who cares what anyone else thinks?

2) One of my best friends is a personal trainer and karate instructor and has always been built like an oak tree. His opinion is that he LOVES to see out of shape people in exactly the place they should be, the gym. My own experience has also been one of encouragement.

Don't fear the gym, it's the right place for you to be.