Like many people who work out, I’m sure I’ve casually mentioned that I go to the gym. I figured that me showing you a little bit about what I do could inspire some of you who are afraid to get out there. So, welcome to the gun show, bitches 😉
I was going to take a picture of myself flexing but since I was already snapping a selfie at the gym I didn’t want to get too crazy. I am a regular there and I DO have a rep to protect. Instead, I took a pic of myself in front of this inconspicuous corner filled with dumbbells. Do you want to know why? Because it’s inconspicuous - obviously.
The gym I go to is pretty big. It’s filled with machines and sophisticated equipment. There are different sets of free weights laid out around the various stations to make it convenient for everyone - as it should be. I, however, stay tucked in this corner where no one can really see me and I can do my thing while facing a brick wall.
I do this because machines are kind of hard for me to use alone. When I have opted to use them myself, people will stop what they’re doing to offer help. I appreciate that - I do - but it makes me feel awkward. It shouldn’t, but it does. So I avoid it.
I also don’t like people looking at me because *I feel* like I look weird when I’m exercising. I’m sure i don’t just as I’m sure no one but me gives a shit... but I like my corner and not having to look at anyone allows me to just do my workout in peace. It might be crazy, but that’s just what I do.
It took me months to build up the courage to join some classes that looked fun. Then, after months of taking classes where *I feel like* I look totally out of place and get just as much of a mental workout talking myself through a class as I do physically, I met some great women who help me when needed, willingly and without being asked. They don’t stare, they don’t act like I’m there to inspire, they just casually get me set up and let me be a part of the regular group. We seem to all benefit from one another and it’s pretty cool.
That being said, staying in shape is important to me both for my mindset and because I need to be able to get myself around. I lift myself a million times a day and losing my ability to do that would take away a lot of my independence. Exercise also helps keep my anxiety at a functional level and my head clear. And of course, I’m forever trying to look like I did in my early twenties when I thought I was fat. 🙄
What I’m trying to say is that even though some people tend to stare at me and others like to stop me to tell me I am an inspiration - which are both totally fine and understandable - as an introvert and shy person, I just want to do my thing and get the fuck out. I am so grateful I can inspire others just by being there, but that’s not my actual intention.
So when you need to feel motivated to get off your ass and do something, remember this: YOU CAN AND YOU SHOULD.
Get out there and do what makes you feel good. Try not to worry what everyone else thinks about you or what you’re doing. If you can’t do that, find a quiet corner or a wall to focus on and get that body moving. If all else fails - pick up some weights and work out in your bedroom. JUST DO IT
You owe it to yourself to take care of your body and mind. You’re the one that has to be happy. You’re the one who has to live with yourself. No one else can do that for you 🙂
Comments