Brits worry they’ll be judged by other gym goers (Image: Getty Images)
A recent survey of 2,000 UK adults reveals that a ‘judgemental’ gym culture is deterring half of Brits from working out.
The study found that a quarter of respondents fear embarrassment or judgement from regular gym-goers. With 28% of gym newcomers worrying about using the equipment incorrectly, while 18% feel uneasy asking for assistance.
Nick Giles, MD for leisure at , which commissioned the research, suggests that gyms aren’t the only option for exercise.
“If you’re new to gym or exercise culture, it can seem like a very intimidating place to spend the amount of time you might want to,” he said.
“With the new-year rush about to hit gyms across the country, a lower-impact way to start getting more exercise could be to simply spend more time outdoors.”
The study indicates that enjoyment is a key factor in motivating exercise, with 46% of respondents feeling more inclined to engage in physical activity outdoors compared to just 22% who prefer the gym.
Over half of those surveyed even reported feeling inspired to work out outside after spending time in nature.
Outdoor exercise can offer more freedom (Image: Getty Images)
Advocating for the outdoors, Nick suggests a fresh approach to fitness might be the best way to beat the new-year gym rush.
“No matter what your level of expertise is, there are all sorts of outdoor activities you can do near you that would do you the world of good post-Christmas.” he advised.
The study also highlighted common grievances among gym-goers, with 30% expressing disgust at those who don’t clean equipment after use.
Additionally, 24% get annoyed by gym users who take selfies in busy work areas or scroll through their phones while commendeering a workout machine.
“Outdoor exercise offers so much more than indoor gyms can,” Nick said, emphasising the accessibility and convenience of nature’s gym, adding: “The outdoors is everywhere and it doesn’t have opening and closing times you only have to leave your doorstep and you’re in it.”
“It’s not just about physical fitness it’s about the freedom to explore, connecting with nature and the boost that brings to your mental health.”
TOP 10 GYM BUGBEARS:
- Not wiping down equipment after use
- Hogging machines while scrolling on their phone
- Taking selfies in busy areas
- Filming workouts in crowded spaces
- Treating the gym as a social hangout
- Excessive grunting during exercises
- Leaving weights scattered everywhere
- Overly loud conversations on Bluetooth headsets
- Dropping weights dramatically for attention
- Using multiple machines at once without sharing