So you want to go to classes but you’re scared? Well fear no more, here’s a few words of wisdom to ease your concerns.
I’ve seen many faces pressed against the glass of the studio door, curious to try but too scared to step inside. I am the one you’re probably the most intimidated by, I am the instructor in my matching gym gear confidently jumping around seemingly at ease.
If you’ve read this much then you’re already on your way to change, so keep reading and let me demystify some common worries.
Everyone else knows what they’re doing….
There is some truth in this; in every class there are the old pros, who seem to know it all. But trust me, I have seen it all and the chances of you being the worst I have ever encountered are unlikely. But! Even if you were, I’d still happily nurture you until you’re confident enough to come to the front row. My job is to teach to all abilities and my goal is to turn every newbie into a regular. My intention is never to alienate anyone so, unless a class definitively outlines it is not suitable for beginners; you’re good to go!
Your concerns?
Everyone is looking at me!
The biggest error in worrying about what people think, is thinking that they think about you at all! Most people are too wrapped up in themselves to give you or anyone else a second thought. Sadly hiding at the back doesn’t mean I won’t see you; I make a conscious effort to check everyone is moving safely and having fun!
What to wear?
As long as you’re not going to fall over you trousers or think that stilettos are suitable then it really doesn’t matter. Just because your Lululemon hair band matches your shorts doesn’t mean you’re any better than anyone else!
What if I’m not fit/strong enough?
I always make a point of offering new participant a chance to leave early. If you’d never run before, you wouldn’t go out for a 10k on your first go! Classes are no different, if you want to come for 20 minutes and then add 5 every week then good for you! We are all on our own journeys. If this is something you’d like to do and your instructor doesn’t mention it then don’t worry about hurting his/her feelings. We’re very thick skinned!
What I’d like you to know…
Come early
Please, please, this is super important. If you’re early I can explain exactly what you can expect and give you all the help you need on how to use whatever equipment we might be using. You’ll also have the opportunity to discuss anything you feel I should know in advance.
Injuries? TELL ME!
It doesn’t matter how long ago it was, and it doesn’t matter if you know how to manage it. Its really important that I know how and when I can push you and what limitations you may have. Don’t be embarrassed, I wont every tell anyone but it’s important I know.
Leave your phone outside
If you have a sick child or you’re waiting for an important call then no problem, but let me know. Otherwise, put it aside and forget about it. You’ve made a decision to dedicate one hour to yourself and your health so stay focused.
Talk to me!
If you loved it or if you didn’t understand something then come and speak to me. I will happily spend time with you to explain something. All those members that appear to be my best friend were once like you and the more we build a relationship the more you’ll get from the class so please don’t be shy.
So there it is, I really hope this has helped and that you feel ready to step inside. Remember everyone, without exception was new once, even me. You are good enough and you deserve to be in that studio as much as anyone.
Good luck!
Zara started gymnastics at the age of eight and moved in to ballet, jazz and contemporary dance. She went on to train professionally at the Guildford School of Acting gaining a degree in Musical Theatre.
She worked within the theatre industry for five years before moving in to fitness.
Currently she teaches Les Miills Body Balance, Body Pump and Body Attack as well as Spin and Flexible Strength. She was fortunate enough to be invited to Presenter Bootcamp for Les Mills where she was offered the opportunity to work towards being an international trainer.
Having always worked on flexibility through gymnastics, dance and now yoga, she enjoys developing her own stretches and sequences to enable clients to reach their goals. She enjoys strength training, running and crossfit and has found flexibility to be beneficial across all workouts.
Flexibility undoubtedly leads to less injuries; and her mantra is “I bend so I don’t break!”
