Nadezhda Grishaeva: fitness is not scary

When opening a fitness center, not many consider 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 concerned about critical 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, shared with Sostav insights the unexpected sides and nuances of the fitness world.

Jimphobia and gymnophobia

In English, there’s a term, gymphobia, indicating fear of the gym. Another less common term is jimtimidation, a blend of ‘gym’ (meaning hall) and ‘intimidation’ — it It’s about the anxiety 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 attending wellness 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.

Addressing 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 absolute 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.

How to overcome fears in the gym

For a new gym-goer, many aspects of the gym can seem intimidating. Some fitness machines are as complex as electric cars. It’s natural to feel initial doubts when trying something new. It’s common to question if they’re dressed correctly, might look silly, or will manage the session. 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 recommend dedicating the first few sessions to learning. My advice is to hire a personal trainer. Studies show that personalized training is more effective. 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. Utilize the gym staff’s expertise. At Anvil, we ensure new members are always guided initially.

Another source of intimidation is social comparison. 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. The reality is, most gym-goers are concentrated on their own routines. Judgment from others says more about them than about you. Disregard such worries.

Fitness centers offer trial passes and consultations. Group fitness classes are a great way to acclimate and meet people. 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

Know someone who’s overly self-assured in their fitness abilities? What about those who can’t handle criticism? Or the person who constantly seeks attention through loud or showy behaviors? 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 should not be confused with genuine self-appreciation. Sports narcissists can be seen as those overly fixated on their athletic image, 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? Indeed, there are.

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. Hence, incorporating therapy sessions alongside regular fitness routines offers comprehensive self-care.