A survey by Nuffield Health, the UK’s largest independent not-for-profit health and wellbeing organization, reveals that a third of 18-35-year-olds (33%) feel too self-conscious to join a gym.
This widespread feeling of intimidation, dubbed ‘gymhibitions,’ is a significant barrier to starting a fitness journey.
The survey of 2,000 young Brits highlights the impact of social media on gym attendance.
One in five (22%) said that seeing gym photos on social media makes them feel pressured to look a certain way, and nearly a third (30%) wish people would post more realistic and less staged pictures.
Alarmingly, 31% believe that social media is more harmful than helpful in encouraging fitness.
Yet, there’s hope. Over two-thirds (69%) of 18-35-year-olds think that more authentic images of celebrities or influencers working out would encourage them to hit the gym.
Aside from intimidation, the survey uncovered other common fears: almost a quarter (23%) worry they’re not fit enough, 24% fear being stared at, and 11% simply dislike getting hot and sweaty.
Stephen Macconville, Nuffield Health’s Fitness Lead, explains, “Many people are put off the gym due to social media pressure. While gym selfies and workout videos can be motivating, they can also deter newcomers.”
The survey also asked what would encourage people to join a gym or go more often. Over a quarter (26%) mentioned a tailored exercise plan, and one in five (20%) cited regular Health MOTs to track progress.
Macconville emphasizes, “Fitness is a personal journey. Regular check-ins with a personal trainer and a Health MOT tailored to your needs ensure better results than comparing yourself to others on social media.”
Nuffield Health offers members a free Health MOT, assessing resting heart rate, aerobic fitness, blood pressure, cholesterol, waist-to-hip ratio, existing injuries, and sleep levels, among other indicators.
This comprehensive assessment helps create bespoke fitness plans and tracks progress through quarterly follow-ups.
The survey also identified the top five gym pet peeves:
- People staring
- People hogging equipment
- People taking selfies/photos
- People not wiping down equipment
- People flexing and staring at themselves in the mirror
To encourage more people to start their fitness journey, Nuffield Health is offering a 1-day trial voucher valid at any of its consumer clubs across the UK.
In a bid to promote positive and realistic workout imagery on social media, they have also created an inspirational workout top that reveals motivating slogans as wearers sweat it out.
The first 100 people to redeem a 1-day trial voucher at Nuffield Health’s website will receive a free heat-activated workout top.