Before I started going to the gym, I was a completely different person. I remember going home and being so excited to just sit on the couch and do nothing until it was time to have dinner. I would thinking about working out, but then I would tell myself it was too late or that I didn't feel good or even that it was too close to dinner. But, one day, I looked in the mirror and I hated the reflection looking back at me. I knew I wasn't fat, but I also new I wasn't healthy. I wanted a change. So, I took a leap of faith and started going to the gym.
Going into the gym to workout after what seemed like forever was a wake up call. I was afraid I would be judged for walking on the tread mill or using lighter weights, but guess what? No one said a thing. That is when I realized that the gym is like a whole different world; a world of no judgement. Every single person in the gym has a goal and wanted change like I did. Each person may not have the same goal, but everyone is united.
Once I realized this, it made going to the gym so much easier. After a week or so, I started to see results. Those results are all I needed to keep me hooked. I continued going to the gym once a day doing different workouts. I loved the stationary bike, the stair stepper, and the elliptical. Once I gained strength and stamina off of those machines, I began using more weight machines to tone. I started to find workouts that truly worked for me and after that I loved going to the gym. I no longer dreaded the feeling of getting ready. Instead, I would get excited to lace up my tennis shoes and fill my water bottle.
Not only did I notice a physical difference in my body, but I also noticed a difference in how I felt. I felt happier and healthier. I sleep better at night knowing I got a good workout and I wake up feeling ready to take on the day. I have also met so many friends through going to the gym and we keep each other motivated.
I'm not saying it is easy to go to the gym everyday because it is 100% a different lifestyle. There is a lot to do in one day, but it is important to take a little time for yourself. I learned to do just that and it has given me a lot more self-confidence and motivation. I owe the gym for new friends, a new out look on life, and a new physical me.
To those who are wanting a change, but don't know how to start, take a drive to the gym. From there you'll see how capable you are and it is truly the greatest feeling in the world. The time is now, don't wait. You CAN do this, trust me.
