You’re outside, or at the gym, or maybe just jogging around your neighborhood - and suddenly, you feel eyes on you. Your ponytail’s swinging, your playlist’s on shuffle and you are 99% sure someone just saw you trip over your shoelace. Sound familiar?

Whether you’re completely new to fitness or training like an undercover Olympian, working out in public can be super nerve-wracking. But here’s the truth: feeling confident while working out has almost nothing to do with how you look - and everything to do with how you commit to yourself. And the good news?

Confidence is a skill, not a personality trait. Here are 6 tricks to help you build it.

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1. Focus on Why

Instead of thinking about what others might be seeing, focus on why you showed up. Maybe it’s to get stronger, to clear your mind, or to take care of your health. Reconnecting with your own purpose makes everything else feel less important.

Remind yourself:

• “I’m doing this for my goals”
• “This time is for me”
• “My progress matters more than their opinions”

When your reason is strong, your confidence builds from the inside out.

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2. Remember that Most People Aren’t Paying Attention

It’s easy to feel like everyone is watching, but most people focus on themselves. Whether they’re adjusting their own form or lost in their playlist, the chances that they’re judging you are incredibly low. Even if someone does notice, it's usually out of respect or curiosity, not judgement.

People admire anyone who's making an effort to move and improve. So instead of worrying about what others think, focus on how you feel, because at the end of the day, you're the one who matters most.

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3. Wear What Makes You Comfortable

Confidence starts with feeling physically at ease. Choose clothes that fit well, feel supportive, and lets you move freely. Whether you prefer leggings and a tank or a loose T-shirt and shorts, the best outfit is one that helps you focus on your workout — not your appearance. Comfort helps you freely move and stay motivated, and when you don't have to think twice about your outfit, you naturally carry yourself with more confidence.

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4. Talk to Yourself Like a Friend

Self-talk has major impact on how you feel. Instead of being your own worst critic, try encouraging yourself the way you would encourage a friend.

“I’m proud of myself for being here.”

“Confidence is something I build, not something I wait for.”

“Every step I take is progress.”

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5. Listen to Your Own Playlist

One of the easiest ways to block out self-doubt and distractions is by popping in your headphones and let your confidence take over. Music can completely change your mindset - it gives you a sense of control and helps you stay in your own zone, no matter who's around. It helps your mindset to become less about who's watching and more about how you feel. Additionally, having a go-to playlist adds a layer and makes working out in public a familiar, empowering, ritual.

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6. You Belong - Just As You Are

You don’t need to look a certain way or have advances skills to belong in a workout space. Every person starts somewhere and every person has a right to move, grow, and be there.

Confidence doesn’t come all at once. Like strength and endurance, it grows over time. The more consistently you show up for your workouts, the more stronger you'll become which will help you worry less about other people's opinions.

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Final Thoughts

Working out in public can be challenging, but confidence isn’t something you have to earn first. It’s something you develop by being present, staying consistent, and respecting your own growth. You don't have to be the fastest, strongest, or most experienced to belong in that space. You just need to show up for yourself - and that alone is powerful.