A question I was asked during my night shift really stuck with me. It forced me to think, even though, ultimately, I was unable to provide them with an answer. What is the question you may ask? It must have been philosophical, given that I had to ponder it for several minutes. Well, I’m here to tell you the question was simple: “How do I get into going to the gym?” She asked me this because she knows I go to the gym and exercise frequently. I, however, was unable to answer this because I, too, feel unmotivated and tired sometimes. I often find my brain forcing my body to go to the gym even though I just don’t feel up to it. Sometimes, my body wins, and I just don’t go. But this question made me think. If the gym is so beneficial for us and supposedly releases dopamine, why do we often find ourselves having to force ourselves to go?
To answer this question, I did some deep thinking in the one place where I can always formulate the best answers: the shower (under hot water, of course). I believe a lot of us have this unexpected timeline for muscle growth and overall results. Social media and society in general have made it seem like you will get perfect abs or a flat stomach after a couple of weeks at the gym. Unfortunately, this isn’t true; it was all a lie. Aside from actually finding the motivation to work out, you need to eat right. Your body needs fuel and rest, both of which are often ignored and overlooked. This is why, after a couple of days of trying to get into the groove of things, people feel worn out, sore, and exhausted. These negative feelings persuade people to give up on going to the gym. Those who do try to maintain mental fortitude might then have to deal with being unable to see their results. Unless you document your progress each day you go to the gym, you don’t see the progress you have made. You don’t see the muscle tone and the increased strength in your shoulders. I also believe this may deter people from going. Of course, after you stop going and look back at old photos, you’ll realize all the progress that you made.
Overall, I think the reason people, myself included, find it hard to consistently go to the gym is because the results aren’t instantaneous like most people promise. It takes a good diet and mental strength to keep going to the gym even when you’re feeling tired. However, once people get into a routine, it becomes part of them. It becomes an outlet for anger, and a place where you can lose track of time. I would encourage everyone to try to go at least 3 times a week and listen to your body. Listen to how much better you feel. Take notice of how much stronger you are. These victories will help you through the daily stresses of life.