If you’re worried about being judged at the gym, I completely understand why. It’s a massive concern for some people before they come to RISE, particularly if they’ve had uncomfortable experiences in conventional gyms before.

You might worry that people will look at you, make comments or notice that you’re less fit or experienced than they are. At RISE, we’ve worked hard to create a welcoming, supportive atmosphere where that isn’t what you’re walking into.

Will people judge me because I’m less fit?

Everyone at RISE is essentially on the same journey, but they’re not all at the same point. Some people have only just started. Others have been training for longer. People have different fitness levels, abilities and starting points.

That means you don’t need to compare yourself with the person next to you or worry about keeping up with somebody who’s further along.

In all the years we’ve been here, I’ve genuinely never had anyone tell me they felt judged at RISE.

What if I’m nervous about exercising around other people?

That’s understandable, especially if you’ve previously felt uncomfortable in a gym environment. But being nervous before you start doesn’t mean you won’t fit in once you’re here.

One of the important things about the RISE community is that people understand what it’s like to be working towards something themselves. You don’t need to arrive fit, confident or experienced to belong.

So if fear of being judged has stopped you exercising or joining a gym before, don’t assume you’ll have the same experience at RISE. You may find that training alongside supportive people who are on their own journeys feels very different.