by Krista Henderson

Hello everyone, I am very happy to be a part of the VenusDivaMag.com editorial team as your new Fitness Editor.

Over the next year, my goal is to provide educational information on how to get fit, have fun, stay motivated, and answer any of your questions related to plus size fitness.

This month, I'd like to address a popular topic; how a plus size woman can overcome feeling self conscious, embarrassed, maybe even shame when they first join a gym.  Many plus size women tend to feel that people are looking at them or judging them for their size.

It doesn't have to feel this way, in fact it usually isn't happening.  Most gym members are very focused on their own workouts and rarely notice when new members join, which means we are creating the situation in our minds due to lack of self-esteem and inner confidence. Life at the gym can be a great place to release stress, zone out and make new friends.  For me, the gym is my 2nd home.

Click on NEXT PAGE below for some tips and tools to help change your gym experience from "survival-mode" to a "comfortable-mode".