I've never been the most physically fit person, and I certainly don't have the time to work out every single day like some girls do (more power to you, seriously). I've seen so many articles from girls who are ripped and plan a workout for every day and have all of the tools to getting that body back in shape. So, I thought maybe you all would like to hear some tips from a girl who's just learning the ropes and figuring things out as it goes. So far, it's all worked out for me! So, here's a more realistic guide to starting to push yourself past your normal limits.

First, you have to set some goals. What do you want to achieve? Do you want weight loss or toned arms? A kick ass booty or tight abs? You have to personalize your workouts. You can't just follow any old plan, cross your fingers and hope you will see the results you were hoping for. Get specific. How many pounds do you want to lose and by when? Set a goal weight, a goal date (For example, I want my arms to look more toned before my cousin's wedding in June.) and figure out what you need to do to achieve that goal.

Secondly, you have to get yourself into a set routine. Really sit down and set a schedule for both days you can hit the gym and afternoons you can dedicate to a week's worth of meal prep and planning. If you have a long day of classes on Monday but a shorter day on Tuesdays, plan to have a longer workout on Tuesdays. Save an at-home abs or booty workout for those long days when you just don't have the energy to stay out any longer. Nobody can push you like you do. You ultimately have the power to push yourself out of bed an hour or two early for that pre-class work out, or stay on campus an hour later for the post-class stress relief cardio work out. I don't "love" working out, either, believe me, but the amount of pride you will have in yourself after you run that extra mile or break a new weight limit with the bar will make it absolutely worth it. Hell, I made it from 20 pounds on the free weights to the 25 pounds and felt like I was ready for the Arnold Classic.

That being said, you have to be realistic. Don't dive in head first at the gym thinking you can totally start with that 50-pound weight at the bench when you struggle to carry more than three grocery bags at one time, or run three miles when you can't even run to your car on a rainy day and haven't since you were a little kid and your mom made you. If you're anything like me, you get a little bit intimidated when you're at your local gym or university rec and see the junior body builder look-a-likes working the weights at the gym and don't want to make a fool of yourself trying to figure out some of the machines. I know, it's scary, but seriously, ask someone who works there. It's literally their job to help you out, and once they've taught you how to use it the first (or second) time, you will most definitely get the hang of it and be able to work with those protein junkies. Take your time. Pace yourself, and work toward your own goal, not in competition with anyone else's.

Since fitness is all about you, it's a good idea to keep track of your progress! To keep yourself from being discouraged and prove to yourself it's all worth the effort you're putting into it, keep a journal. Write down meals you have planned, recipes you liked the best, workouts that really kicked your butt and how it feels when a run you used to struggle through suddenly felt easier, maybe even throw in a motivational quote or two (Pinterest is full of fitspo)! Surround yourself with inspiration and motivation, and you will persevere through the rough patches to reach your goal.

I know I've been talking a lot about weights, cardio and toning your body, but there's something I need to give a little bit of extra attention to. While everyone has their cheat days and should definitely treat themselves to it every once in a while, it is absolutely necessary you commit to the healthier lifestyle and try your best to eat healthy. Planning meals ahead will help immensely, so you don't have an excuse to choose the Pop-Tart over a parfait or eggs and toast, or a frozen pizza over grilled chicken and quinoa. If you're like me and haven't cooked a day in your life, exchange healthy recipes with your mom, grandma, friend, anyone. I promise, someone has a go-to recipe or two up their sleeve. Maybe even take a healthy cooking class with a group of friends, so you can all cook together and make a night out of it. (Wine is optional but always suggested in those cases.)

Last but not least, just have fun with it. Don't make it seem like a chore; you want to do this; you don't need to. Drag your friends out to the gym with you, buy new workout clothes you can't justify wearing anywhere else but the gym. Take fun classes, like spinning or Zumba, and show it off a little bit. People hate on those who post on social media, but I say screw them; you just made this super delicious meal, and you're practically a five-star chef with that presentation, so take a picture and post it. Tag your mom, grandma or best friend – one of them will show some interest and sing your praises for days. Maybe even get a whole new Instagram account and dedicate it solely to your journey in fitness, keep a blog, do whatever your little heart desires, just allow yourself to be proud of yourself.

Good luck!