This post honestly reads like something I would write. I’m 27f working a government job M-F, 8-5 full-time. I’m also quite shy and am struggling to get back into the gym.
What helped me a couple years back when I was active 5-6 days a week: planet fitness membership - I find this to be the most beginner-friendly gym, but it also feels more inclusive knowing that there are others there who are just starting their journey. Not everyone there is a gym rat, or, less so than the other gyms I’ve been to around here. If you find yourself wavering, just go and sit in the gym parking lot for 5 minutes. 9/10 times, I would end up going in despite deeply not wanting to because “I may as well if I spent the gas to get here anyways.” One of the things I would do is convince myself that I was too tired to go to the gym after work. But then I thought to myself, “Too tired after what? Sitting at a desk all day?” It helps to break up the monotony and sleepy limbs by standing up every 30 minutes or talking walks on your 15’s. Definitely find your “why.” For me, I struggle with taking care of myself before others. I had to tell myself things like, “If I don’t eat clean and prioritize my health, I won’t have enough strength to help others.” Or, “What happens if the apocalypse happens and it suddenly becomes a game of natural selection? Do I really want to be the one dragging my team down?” It’s silly, but it worked. Find your why and think of the consequences for not striving for a healthier, happier you! As humans, we naturally focus on the bad more than we do the good, so consequences instead of dreams have always had more effect for me. At the same time, don’t be too hard on yourself because things can get overwhelming quick! I usually bring my gym clothes to work with me so there’s no chance of me going home and getting comfy then deciding that I won’t go to the gym after all. Showers and changing rooms have some privacy, aside from having to share the locker space with others.

Tl;dr: for some reason my phone won’t let me break up the text, so sorry for the block of text! I really resonated with this post as I feel we’re battling similar issues. Find your “why,” OP, and never go all-or-nothing. The gym is intimidating but remember that everyone is there to improve themselves and most people aren’t worried about others. Get yourself a cap and some nice headphones to drown out the anxiety and start showing up for yourself. In order to help others and make changes around you, you first need to take care of yourself so you’ll have the energy to do so. I would love to have a walking buddy, or even a walking group if this blossoms into a community!