It’s Normal to be Nervous

Back when I was in my early twenties teaching fitness, I didn’t pick up that people in my classes might feel anxious on their first day or that I was a new instructor to them. Looking back, it’s weird that I didn’t see it because I personally had experienced those feelings. I was young and I assumed that people older than me were more confident; I also assumed that I was less confident than anyone who seemed outgoing. Of course, now I know that it’s normal to be nervous when starting something new! 

Everyone Gets Nervous

Starting something new takes courage. All of us have some amount of anxiety and nervousness when it comes to doing new things. As a long-time fitness instructor, personal trainer, and Pilates teacher, I (now) see it with many new clients. Some are upfront and express their nerves to me before they even come, while others will share later on – telling me how they felt when they first got started.

This has been true back when I taught aerobics and spin, and is still true in my Pilates & Fitness Studio, at the bootcamp I teach, and in the running club I lead at Sole Experience. Once you’re comfortable with that new activity or new space, it’s easy to forget what it was like when you first got started. When I think back on it, though, I’ve always felt a little uneasy starting something new. 

I Get Nervous, Too

I started Scottish Dancing when I was four years old. After the first year, we were planning on moving so my mom didn’t re-register my sister and me because we weren’t sure where our new home would be. It turned out we moved close enough to the studio, and we joined the studio halfway into the year. Even though I’d been to the studio before and knew familiar faces, I still remember six-year-old me feeling nervous and behind the others in learning. Of course, soon I was back in the swing of things and the feelings dissipated. 

Then as an eighteen-year-old, I was nervous to go to my first aerobics class and then to start working out in the weight room. I’m grateful to have a friend who supported me and went with me. Soon enough I would go with or without her there. I met other people and tried other classes. I was there so often that the manager asked if I’d be interested in becoming an aerobics instructor. I was nervous to say “yes”, but I did – and look where I am now. 

We’re Here to Support You

I’ve had many times like these in my life, but eventually they get forgotten or less prominent in my memory. I was reminded of the above stories when I was teaching bootcamp last week. I met a couple of new bootcampers who told me their stories of why they had joined, and another who wasn’t new but had a hard time getting to class due to their anxiety. 

I felt honoured that they were comfortable enough to share their feelings with me. I’m also thankful that they told me because it helps me get to know them better, but it also reminded me how it’s normal to be nervous when you’re new at something. 

Getting to know you is one reason I have new clients do an introduction series. It helps us learn if we are a good fit together, and allows you to know the fundamentals and gain familiarity with the studio and apparatus. This practice has also helped me grow my business! I used to let people do a drop-in before they signed up, but very few of those people ended up becoming regular clients. Of those that do the introduction series, however, the majority of people continue on. It’s a way to get over your nerves and feel comfortable doing something new. 

Whether it’s with Pilates, at bootcamp, or running club, I’m here to support you. So is the group! Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced mover, it’s normal to be nervous when you’re new. So know you’re not the only one feeling that way. The nerves will pass and soon be a distant memory.