While Brits are eager to enhance their physical and mental wellbeing through exercise, a new poll discovered that a 'judgemental' culture at the gym is scaring off half of Brits. The poll of 2,000 adults found that a quarter are apprehensive about embarrassing themselves or are concerned about the opinions of regular gym-goers.
For those new to the gym, 28% worry about not using the equipment correctly, while nearly one in five (18%) feel nervous about asking for assistance. Nick Giles, MD for leisure at Ordnance Survey, which sponsored the study acknowledged that the gym can be a 'very intimidating place', especially if you're new. However, he suggests that the gym isn't the only place to get your fitness fix.
"A lower-impact way to start getting more exercise could be to simply spend more time outdoors," he added. "No matter what your level of expertise is, there are all sorts of outdoor activities you can do near you that would do you the world of good post-Christmas.".
The poll suggests that over half have even felt motivated to exercise outside after spending time in nature. For most fitness enthusiasts, it's crucial that their workout feels enjoyable rather than burdensome - and this could be the motivation for many to take their exercise outdoors.
The study found that 46% said they would feel inspired to engage in physical activity outdoors, compared to just 22% who feel the same about using a gym. Nick pointed out: "Outdoor exercise offers so much more than indoor gyms can," and added: "The outdoors is everywhere and it doesn't have opening and closing times you only have to leave your doorstep and you're in it.".
