At the beginning of this semester, my friends and I decided we would become gym rats. I will be the first to admit that it was more difficult than I gave it credit for. I was sore and sluggish in the beginning, and quite frankly I hated the whole process. However, I found that my unwillingness has lessened a bit during group workouts such as weight training or, my personal favorite, Zumba.

Zumba instructors are God's gift to mankind, and I have a few words I would like to say to them.

Thank you for knowing which songs are our favorites and putting them in the lineup. I might not know the name of the song or the words to the chorus, but I know what the introduction sounds like. Working out is really a lot more fun when you have good music to listen to.

Thank you for being patient with me. I am not a dancer by any means. I have no rhythm in any part of my body. Even still, you have been understanding and accommodating with my friends and I while we figure just how to make our bodies do "that."

Thank you for not laughing at me. You have witnessed how clumsy and awkward I am and I've noticed that you've changed some of your moves because the group just doesn't seem to be catching on.

Thank you for showing me that I don't have to be unattainably skinny to be fit and healthy. I have come to terms with the fact that I will not drop thirty pounds in only a few weeks. But I feel good and have more self-confidence now than I ever have.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for motivating me to take care of my body.