My Beginning- Fitness

My Journey to the Gym: Breaking Barriers and Building Strength

The Call to Action: Why I Decided to Start

The gym has always been a place of intimidation and curiosity for me. I have never been the strongest person in the room. I have never been the one loading the most weight on the bar. At the same time, I viewed it as a place of progress for improving myself.

Before I joined the gym, I had gone to gyms in the past inconsistently. I would go a little bit, get sore, and then quit for awhile and then start the process over again.

I saw people change as they stayed consisted in the gym and I wanted to change…so I stepped inside the gym for good at the end of 2019.

First Impressions: The Gym Experience

Walking into the gym for the first time with the intention of making this a part of my regular routine was like walking into a whole new world. I was given a tour by the gym manager and as we were walking, she would ask me different questions about lifting weights and I had no idea how to answer them (it had been around a decade since the last time I had been to the gym in any official capacity). After the tour, she allowed me to “try” it out. I had no clue what to do. So I did what most guys would do, hit some bicep curls, bench press, and the crunch machine and left.

Finding My Groove: Discovering What Works for Me

I quickly realized that working out isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s a journey of discovery. I realized that every machine I tried, I was not very strong in it. I had to swallow my pride and lower the weights (not a bad thing to do at all!). I dabbed into various classes—small group training, private training, doing my own thing. Each one taught me something new. Small Group was challenging, I didn’t want to be out lifted so I probably lifted way more that I should. Private training was difficult, the trainer pushed me way harder than I was ready for. Doing my own thing was hard, I had to figure out what to do all on my own. Each was hard, but each was rewarding. With each rep, I could feel my body getting stronger.

Overcoming Hurdles: Battling Doubts and Insecurities

Of course, not everything was smooth sailing. There were days when self-doubt crept in, making me question my abilities. Ever felt like giving up when the going gets tough? I have, and at the gym, you will hit a wall of toughness. And I wanted to give up. What kept me going? My commitment and the results I was seeing. It was through my discipline and the results that kept me going back.

The Power of Community: Finding Support at the Gym

One of the best parts of my gym journey? The people. It’s amazing how a simple nod or smile from a fellow gym-goer can pump you up. I discovered a community that cheered each other on. Whether it was swapping workout tips or high-fiving after a tough set, those connections made the gym feel like home.

Celebrating Milestones: Small Wins Matter

Every little victory counts. I remember the first time I lifted a weight I didn’t think I could. It felt like winning a trophy. Celebrating these milestones kept my motivation alive. Whenever I hit a new weight or get that extra rep, it challenges me to push even harder the next time. That is the key to success at the gym, keep pushing yourself to do better with each set and rep.

The Road Ahead: Setting New Goals

Now that I’ve gotten a better understanding of what to do at the gym, I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me. Setting goals keeps the excitement alive. Whether it’s setting a new personal record on a lift or finishing an entire 12 week workout plan without missing a day, goals get me excited to keep taking that trip to the gym.

Conclusion: Embracing the Journey

Starting at the gym has been a rollercoaster ride—full of ups and downs, thrills and challenges. But it's a journey worth taking. So, if you’re standing on the edge, contemplating whether to jump in, take the plunge! You might just find a stronger, happier you waiting on the other side. Remember, every champion was once a beginner. Who knows? The gym might just become your new favorite adventure.