The biggest struggle is getting out of bed and actually being active and going to the gym. It's tough to leave the comfort of your room -- all cozy and warm under the covers -- to put on workout clothes and walk all the way to the WoodPEC and exert energy on machines. I'm just starting to get into the groove of a good workout, but Olivia Pope from "Scandal" can relate to my angst.
1. Actually getting up to work out
Actually getting up to exert energy on machines instead of watching "Scandal" (or other wonderful shows) is so hard. When you actually get up, it's a sense of relief, but that's the first step. Although it seems like it's the most difficult, it only goes downhill from there.
2. Trying to find motivation
I think my main motivation for going to the gym for a good hour and a half three to four times a week is so I can eat pizza and not feel bad about it.
3. Trying to live up to ridiculous expectations
I definitely feel like many men want stick-thin girls, and that's one of the reasons a lot of people work out. Although this can be a form of motivation, it isn't the healthiest. You should work out to be healthier and the best version of yourself, but I understand the struggle of seeing other people at the gym and wanting to look like them.
4. Trying to work the machines
Since I'm new to this whole "working out" thing, it's really funny to see me struggle when trying to figure out some of these contraptions at the gym. "I'm supposed to do what with this machine?" is a common thought that runs through my head.
5. Trying to find motivation (You need lots of this!)
Going to the gym for yourself is excellent -- but it's also rewarding to challenge yourself by using other people as motivation. I'm not promoting body shaming or comparing yourself to someone, I'm promoting focusing on your perfect body and working on being healthier.
6. Seeing people you know
This is the absolute worst! You're working out and you're sweating and looking like a hot mess, and who do you see? Oh just about everyone you dislike at the gym at the same time that you're there.
7. When your gym buddy bails
It's so helpful to have someone to push you (or die with you) when going to the gym. When they bail, it decreases your motivation. That's why it's good to have a few gym buddies.
8. Trying to push your limits
When I try and work out, I do reps but I've also started doing the exercise until I "fail" or until I can't physically do it anymore.
9. The cost of athletic clothes
I didn't realize that so little clothing could cost so much...
10. Making "attractive" grunting noises
I swear I've heard the strangest noises at the gym that I didn't realize were humanly possible. Grunting, screaming, you name it, I've heard it.
11. Not having the perfect playlist
No matter how many times I search "workout songs" on Google, I'm going to end up having Nicki Minaj and Rihanna on my playlist.
