Goons at the Gym - Banishing Bullies with Barbells

Most of us go to the gym to work out, not to be worked over.

Are you being bullied at the gym? Are the hard-bodies trying to intimidate you, while you exercise? Do you cower in the corner, as buff bodies pump iron nearby?

At the gym, more than any other place, body image is central. And no one has a perfect body! At least in our own perceptions, we may be too short or too tall, too thin or too fat. We may have other complaints about our physiques as well.

To make matters worse, gym fashions have become big business. Simply tossing on comfy sweats and a baggy tee are not enough these days. Folks saunter into the local gym with high fashion workout wear. After all, by the time we pay those hefty membership fees, we want to look like we belong, right?

What can we do, to create a more comfortable community, so we can feel the burn from our workouts, instead of the stares of those around us?

Tips for the Timid

First, select an appropriate gym. If you are a reluctant athlete, then you may not want to join the varsity gym. If you are a beginning boxer, stay out of the sweatshop! If you are a dabbling dribbler, don't sign up to practice with the local pros. Most large communities have several gym choices. Visit these, and check out the atmosphere before signing.

Go with a friend. Actually, this serves two important purposes. Friends may offer each other moral support; there is strength in numbers. Also, you and your friend can encourage one another to persist in your workouts and attendance.

If anyone at the gym is actually accosting you, harassing you, or otherwise infringing upon your rights, feel free to inform the gym staff. If you paid to play, then you have every right to participate.

Wait your turn for the equipment. Then be bold to speak up, if you are next in line. If someone refuses to grant you access, call in official reinforcements.

If reservations are required for machines or courts, get your name in. Often, this is required, and unavailable spots may have little to do with strong-arming.

Give yourself credit for showing up! If your body is not yet all you want to be, encourage yourself. You are doing something constructive about it! Are you stronger and fitter than you were a week ago? Rejoice in your success!

Don't wait until your body is buff to hit the gym. After all, isn't that why we even go to the gym anyway?

Don't feel the need to conform to sports styles. If you aren't ready to bare it all in a sports bra, then wear your favorite tee. If you feel self-conscious in lycra bodysuits and tights, just slip on those sweats. Give the fashion police the day off!

Visit the gym during lower-traffic hours. Peak times tend to be early mornings, early evenings, and during the lunch hour.

Instructing the Intimidators

Back off, big boys! The gym is not the school playground. Flex your aggressive muscles somewhere else!

Territorial games are childish. Aren't you here to work out? Common courtesy is an essential part of fitness. How fit is it to mistreat, bully or intimidate others?

Often, people may intimidate others without even meaning to do so. If you are bold and buff, you might consider how you could encourage others to get stronger too.

Beginners may be reluctant. How can you affirm your fellow fitness folks and stimulate them to keep on trying?

Let's make the gym fun again!