After coming out on the other side of exams last semester, I realized that I had spent almost no time exercising in the four months of the fall. So, naturally, I began to make goals for myself regarding the number of days a week I was going to visit the Plex beginning in January (sound familiar, anyone?).
Upon my first arrival at the Plex this spring, I was energized and excited to get back into a routine that was going to keep me feeling good. The familiar stifling humidity hit me like a brick wall as I crossed the threshold into the heart of the Plex, and then I felt my heart drop into my stomach.
I had forgotten that at Boston College, to be at the Plex, you have to already be in shape.
I had forgotten that at Boston College, wearing just a regular t-shirt to the gym isn’t acceptable. I was seeing tight tank tops for days.
I had forgotten that at Boston College, wearing make up to work out is not only accepted, but it’s the norm.
Now, I’m sure you’ve had your fill of commentary on the “BC Look” and the pressure women (and men) on this campus feel to look a certain way. I don’t mean to beat the subject to death, but I thought I might provide some encouraging words to those people who may feel anxiety when they begin thinking about visiting the architecturally out of place building we call the Plex.
The purpose of going to the gym is to get in better shape, regardless of where your starting point is. You shouldn’t feel embarrassed or nervous about hitting the Plex, it’s not a competition (although it often seems like it). You are there for one person only—you.
Yes, you are bound to run into people you know. Yes, it seems like each new guy who lays down to bench press adds on 100 more pounds of weights. But you aren’t there for those people; you are there for your own personal physical betterment, whatever that might mean for you.
Photo Sources:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/christopherskillman/2454821741/