Everyone goes to the Gym to get fit and healthy and that's exactly what you and your friend are going for! Don't worry about anyone else, just think of the outcome in a few months.

I started going to the gym at 310lbs. I was definately the biggest person there. My experiences at the gym have been fantastic.

Just go in there and do what you gotta do. Work hard. Last thing I wantis for someone to say, Hey, look at that fat chick pretending to exercise. When I go in there I want them to think, Hey look at that fat chick. She's kicking ***! :tread:

I agree with this. I joined a gym with friends because I was nervous and it was great to have them with me the first time... but the second time, I went alone (because they all backed out at the last minute) and I felt fine being there alone. Now I find that when I go at the same time as my friends, it's hard to stay focused and the chatting interferes with the timing of my rest periods.

Also, go in with a plan. Then you can focus on ticking off your to-do list and you won't notice anyone else. Plus, you'll achieve more with a plan. It can be something simple at first, like doing Couch to 5K on a treadmill, or even just 20 minutes on an elliptical.

I agree with this as well. I belonged to a women's gym for a while and I liked it very much at the time. If you're into cardio and classes, women's gyms will have plenty of options.

I felt the same way that first day.. but I got in there and did my thing and it wasn't bad at all. I've been every day since. Just go. You won't regret it.

I belong to Planet Fitness myself and I have to say, there are people of EVERY size there every single time I go, you will NOT be the only person that you think is "larger" so I really wouldn't worry about that - plus going to the gym proves that you are doing something about your weight - you should never be embarrased about wanting to get or be healthy/healthier than you are.

ALSO Planet Fitness has signs all over their gyms that they are a NO JUDGEMENT zone - yes I know they can't actually monitor every person, but from what I've seen, most people go, do their workouts and leave. There isn't enough space to socialize - they are more bare bones style gyms for working out. Good luck and don't let anyone or any thing talk you out of doing what you want - I did and I was miserable as a result.

Just gotta say I LOOOOOOVE your post - go girl!

I agree with both fatneedle and yoyomadness! All women gyms have a completely different atmosphere! I love mine because there are women of all shapes and sizes there and we are all just working for ourselves! My gym also has lots of different group classes that are available in general membership! Those are fun because, like the general machine area, there isn't the feeling of being on display, you are just having fun!

Don't worry about your weight when you go to the gym or people questioning you being there. Nobody will question you being there. I know that is something that can be hard to think but really, nobody will be judging. If anything, like someone posted prior to me, most who take note will be inspired by you and think, "wow, good for her, she is awesome!"

More than anything, pick a gym that you feel safe/comfortable in. If you don't feel comfortable, you won't go. If going with your friend increases your anxiety about going, don't go with her. This is about you, you need to do what is best for you. You are awesome and deserve a place with people that you can successfully focus on you!

I hope this helps! You really don't need to feel anxiety about the gym!