How to work out is something a few of us still need to learn. The gym is filled with work out equipment that can be overwhelming and confusing to navigate. But many, like Colleen, have learned how to work out and have seen results! What are you waiting for? You to can learn how to work out and can achieve more than you ever thought in the gym this summer!
By Colleen
Until my sophomore year of college, I had never stepped foot into a gym. The only reason I learned how to work out is because the brand-spankin’-new fitness facility was built right next door to my residence hall. It’s as if the universe – and my tight jeans – were sending me a not-so-subtle sign. Get in the gym, you lazy SOB. You have no excuses now. So, I went. I tried my best to mentally prepare myself to get serious about fitness and learn how to work out.
How to Work Out When You Never Had To
I’ll never forget the first time I stepped — OK, stumbled — onto an elliptical. I set it to Level 2 (because I’m a born champion) and got to work. My legs were on FYAH! I was sweating like a son-of-a-gun and felt like I was really going to town.
Then, I looked down. Nine minutes had passed. I think I trucked on for another solid minute before throwing in the towel.
Literally, I threw my towel. But the next day I went back and tried again.
Over time things have gotten easier, and I’ve continued to challenge myself by learning new ways to work out. I moved up to running. Lifted a few weights. Took a few classes. And those are the results I’ve seen. My results have been stamina and endurance. I’ve never lost a significant amount of weight (because I didn’t have to) and I’ve never seen a difference in my shape.
Was that discouraging?
HELL YES! Sometimes I felt discouraged when friends lost weight, developed chiseled abs, and bought new, smaller clothes. We always want what we don’t have, right?
That said, I’ve always known and appreciated that fitness looks different on every body. So fast forward to last night: I was making dinner and Cory said, “Your back and shoulders look really strong.”
Learn How to Work Out, Stay Strong and See Results
What’s that you say?! Like the uber tool that I am, I immediately ran to look in the mirror. I was shocked. I saw muscle! Muscle I never had before!
Finally, five years after learning how to work out and starting my fitness journey, and a month after stepping into a BodyPUMP class (three times a week), I have seen my first real physical results.
For some, this may not be a big deal. But for me, it is! Especially because I have that whole Muscular Dystrophy thing going on. So, I’m proud of myself. Plain and simple.
This just goes to show that learning how to work out really does work. You can learn how to work out and you can gain results. It may take longer for some than others (ie: ME) but this feeling is worth it!
Stay happy and healthy, my friends and know that you can learn how to work out and see results!
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What I love most about fitness is challenging my body and the feeling of accomplishment that it brings. Tell me what you love most about fitness!
