This is definitely a real thing.
In a study of 2000 people, it took a look at people’s fitness routines and habits and found that as many as 50 percent feel the idea of working out among other people in a gym environment is a daunting prospect. A further 31 percent admit to feeling anxious when thinking about trying to get into shape overall.
In fact, 48 percent feel intimidated by the number of fitness workouts and classes out there.
When it comes to the intimidation factor, it’s not just in the gym where this feeling is prevalent, either. Thirty-six percent reveal that running outside is more intimidating than starting an exercise routine.
Most intimidating activities:
- Lifting weights (39 percent)
- Going for a run outside (36 percent)
- Starting an exercise routine (35 percent)
- Going to a yoga class (35 percent)
- Playing a sport – recreationally (34 percent)
Top times intimidation strikes:
- Exercising near someone who is extremely fit (32 percent)
- Exercising in front of the opposite sex (17 percent)
- During my exercise (15 percent)
- Waking into the gym (14 percent)
- In the free weights section (10 percent)
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