Gym Rat???

I was reading my monthly Women's Health Magazine one day. And as usual, I was skimming the pages looking for interesting health or exercise tips (as most of the articles on anything else in this magazine is crap). I came across an article about exercising and couldn't help but notice the words gym rat. I kept reading from there. Then, it dawned on me. Gym rat describes me perfectly.

When did I become a gym rat?

For as long as I can remember, I was the un-athletic girl, the last to be chosen on a team in P.E., the give-up-running-after-a-minute girl, and the girl who would only exercise if she was forced. I was all of these girls. So, when did I become a gym rat?

I guess it all began when I decided that I needed a big change in my life. It had to be something I could control (as I am a bit of a control freak). I couldn't start dating because that would risk rejection from the other party. I couldn't travel because there are a lot of hidden and not so hidden dangers out there. But, I control my weight. And I decided that my big change would come from this.

At first, when I asked the advice of friends and family, I would get laughs or semi-supportive words. After a while, they figured I was serious and gave me the thumbs up. But they were all still skeptical.

See, I did things halfway. I give up easily. I don't finish what I start. But this time, I wanted to finish what I started. This is my health I'm talking about.

I shopped around online for the best prices. Soon enough, I got discouraged. There are only a few choices on this island I live on. All three were pricey. But they were still within reach. In the end, my choice of gym was something impulsive. The first one I walked into was the one I decided to pay for.

I knew that if I joined a gym, I would need motivation. In fact, I needed a lot of it. So, I hired a trainer to take me on for 8 sessions. I hoped that after a while, all she taught me would take a hold. And it did.

Three months later, and a month without her, I am still working out. I've improved my eating habits. I make better food choices. I keep up with my exercising. I go at least 4 times a week. I've learned to add to my exercise regiment. I exercise for hours.

I've learned a lot about myself throughout this short process. I've learned what I can handle. I've learned what my body can handle. If all of this means that I am a gym rat, so be it. I never would have thought I would ever call myself one. But I guess it must be true. I am a gym rat.