how do you maintain going to the gym with social anxiety

i'm a male in my 40s, i have to go to the gym to maintain my health, because i acquired type 2 diabetes years back.....but ive had a hard past and suffer shyness, low self confidence, low self esteem and have social anxiety...publically i'm usually very nervous, shy and come off as socially awkward...i pay 53 pounds every month to go to a private gym, which is just across the road from me....but it is a big ordeal to go there, i don't like being around younger lads but don't mind being around other men and elderly men....i see younger lads as a threat and they unnerve me.

how can i keep on going to the gym when i have these problems? i only go to the gym to swim in the pool, and i'm very nervous during the whole stay at the gym, i get scared someone might start trouble with me, as i've been bullied and harassed in my past.

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Kae20 · 56-60, FVIP

The advice that you dont have to talk to anyone is pretty much spot on.

Pre pandemic I put off joining a gym for a long time.

I'm slightly aspergers & dont always appreciate having to deal with people I dont know ..who want to chat.

But eventually in my 50's I needed to join to stay as fit as possible.

There was one older lady , who was alright we talk much but useful exchanges .

And then mostly to my relief. I found folk just left me to get on with my program. Tbh most members were fixated on what they were doing.

Staff leave you alone has well. But always handy if need constructive advice. Which I can do in small bites , as long as its relevant.

Good luck!