If you haven’t already, you need to check out Auburn’s new recreation center. After a long day of commuting to classes there is nothing like a solid workout to burn off some steam. Others may think, “Might as well get hit by a car. It takes less energy and you still get the same sensation.” If you fall in this category, there are three possible reasons as to why a trip to the gym can be such a struggle. One, you are intimidated by the beef-cakes that seem to surmount the equipment. Two, you don’t know what to do with yourself once you enter the gym. Or three, you really have a hard time motivating yourself to get in shape. Whichever reason is keeping you from being active I have simple solutions for them all.
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For those of you girls that are intimidated by the guys that seem as if they jsut stepped off the movie set, 300, don’t be. More than likely, they are more nervous than you are and are trying their best to impress you. Letting your worries get the best of you will not only get you nowhere on the tredmill, but in life in general. If you really seem to struggle with the fear of gym judgments, pop in your headphones and tune the world out. A good playlist can prove to be helpful in situations like this. Here are my top ten suggested songs:
1)Â Â Till I Get There- Lupe Fiasco
2)Â Â South Side- Moby
3)Â Â Voodoo Child- Jimi Hendrix
4)Â Â No One To Run With- The Allman Brothers
5)Â Â Harder Than You Think- Public Enemy
6)Â Â Secondhand News- Fleetwood Mac
7)Â Â Strip My Mind- Red Hot Chili Peppers
8)Â Â The Golden Age- The Asteroids Galaxy Tour
9)  Coastin’- Zion I
10) My Hero- Foo Fighters
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To the ladies that have a hard time deciding what to do or are unsure of how to use some of the equipment, plan ahead. Auburn’s new rec center offers all types of exercise classes, such as yoga, zumba, rock climbing and more, which are all accessible by signing up online, beforehand. If you aren’t looking to take a class, it is beneficial to come to the gym with a set workout plan already in mind. If the problem is more how to do something than which to do, I recommend using YouTube, as silly as that sounds. Many of the machines seem more complicated than they actually are, and you can learn how to use them quickly with videos. The most important thing to remember is to be safe and not overwork your body by going too long or using more weight than your body can handle.
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And finally, if a lack of motivation is the thing that is stopping you from using Auburn’s amazing new rec center, then keep reading. Not only have I found it easier, but it has also been much more enjoyable to work out when I have a friend with me. She could be there for support and encouragement or, if you’re like me, as a little competition. When you have someone by your side truckin’ along with you, it becomes less of a hassle and more of a bonding time. Having someone to hold you accountable to hit the gym regularly has made all the difference, in many cases.