The gym is either a place you love or dread. I am in the latter group, and while it may feel good in the end, it is a journey to get there. It takes time to go work out and then you come out all sweaty. When you finally get your workout clothes on (or your friend drags you there), you can choose the treadmill or a workout class, and get going. People who dread the gym know that the struggle is real when you know you need to go to the gym, but really try to make an excuse to not go. So, here are the before, during, and, after thoughts of people (like me) who dread the gym.
Before:
1. I look so good and athletic in these workout clothes. (Of course I’m going to show off my new active pants.)
2. Who knew so many attractive men came here, I should stop by more often
3. We need a good motivational playlist. “I got the eye of the tiger..”
4. (Headband snaps back in your face) Ouch!! That hurt
5. I’m going in the corner, so no one will make fun of my running. (Phoebe on Friends is my spirit animal.)
During
1. Alrighty I’m ready. Let’s do this!
2. Thank God, I brought a WATER BOTTLE!
3. Maybe I should have thought about this more?
4. My bed wouldn’t have hurt me like THIS!!
5. You know, I could have been watching Gilmore Girls, INSTEAD!
After
1. I can’t feel my legs. Now, I am going to trip down the stairs.
2. I feel GOOD. Maybe, that wasn’t so bad.
3. Maybe I’ll try the yoga class tomorrow.
4. Yeah, I just went to spinning. (Impressed looks on your friend’s faces) I KNOW!
5. I deserve a cookie for getting through that.
So, the gym may not be the most pleasant thing to do and college puts a lot on your plate. However, staying healthy is important and will keep your stress down. If you don’t like running on the treadmill then try to find a yoga or Zumba class to go to, or find a hiking trail to go with a friend. Working out can be enjoyable if you find something that is fun. It may be tough at first, but your body will be thankful, especially during finals. So, take care of your body and mind by breaking a sweat.