Hello
I understand how you feel.
I went back to gym at 60, an old woman completely out of shape, and had the same concerns about being judged. I was anxious about starting but had to for health reasons.
I needn’t have been concerned.
The gym was full of people like me—and everyone just gets on with doing their own program. I never felt judged, in fact lots of people reached out to welcome me and offer advice/help. People seemed to understand that everyone has to start somewhere. I am so glad that I pushed through the uncomfortableness and anxiety.
If you are thinking about a gym, you can choose to attend at less busy times, same goes for a swimming pool. Many pools offer water aerobics, where you will almost certainly meet people like you at the start of their fitness journey. The added benefit of an exercise class is that you get to meet other people.
Walking is without doubt one of the best forms of exercise. I do this daily. You can choose your own route and time to increase your comfort with the activity.
There are also a plethora of exercises that you can do from home. Perhaps you could engage a personal trainer to devise a program for you? I suggest this based on my own experience of getting injured (very minor) while not correctly doing some weight training.
I really want to encourage you to get started—it is never too late to exercise and the health benefits are enormous. Particularly the mental health benefits.
Perhaps you could start with a small achievable goal. Do you think you could try a short walk at dusk or early morning (to reduce your anxiety)? You just start somewhere and build.
Kind thoughts to you
