I TRIED TO WORKOUT FOR 2 WEEKS AND THIS IS WHAT I LEARNED:

I… HATE working out. I’ve tried it all- the city’s gym, a private gym, dance classes, running, and even yoga (before they started asking me to chant mysterious mantras). It’s a point of frustration for me and borderline shame. Why can’t I master this?

I grew up as a super active kid. I was a pop-warner cheerleader as a child. I ran track in middle school. I was the co-captain of my high school’s dance team. I spent 6 years working in fashion- running up and down escalators and lugging around 30 pound boxes. So, why is it SO hard to workout and move my body consistently?

I scroll on social media and see women in cute, coordinating workout sets. They have stylish water tumblers and gym bags. I’m also in awe that they have the audacity to record themselves at the gym! I had stints of Runyon Canyon- but they were leisurely strolls, catching up with friends and eating carbs brunches afterwards. 

So, I cashed in my 2 week free trial at ClassPass. Have you heard about it? They give you a certain amount of credits and you can take different classes all over the city- pilates, boxing, gyms, cycling and tons of others. I took a few pilates classes, a very “interesting” pelvic-centered workout studio, and even boxing! This is what I learned:

1. You need a routine: Since leaving college, I’ve always had a random schedule- every work week in obscurity. Similarly, taking care of a toddler lends itself to spontaneity. You have to ADVOCATE for yourself! My husband was mildly annoyed with me during my 2 week experiment lol. More than anything, he was mildly annoyed that I didn’t have a set schedule. The point is to get into a pattern- so much so that the behavior becomes a way of life.

2. A little goes a long way: I used to think you had to work out for an hour for your workout to count. After 45 minutes of a pilates class… trust me. My thighs and shoulders told a different story. The main thing is to keep going- even if you do it for 15 minute increments… you’re structuring a new identity. 

3. Comfortable with discomfort: Going to different classes every other day meant I was introduced to new teachers, new places and new members every time. It was… uncomfortable feeling like the “new kid on the block” at every turn. For example, I took a boxing class for the first time and I was OUT OF MY COMFORT ZONE. I sweated like a HOG. I met some great people and I felt invincible when I left.

Full transparency, when that ClassPass free membership, so did I. Working out in a significant, organized way isn’t cheap. I looked into each of the gyms/workout clubs fees and baybeeee… that’s out for me right now.

Yet and still, I felt great! My body was sore 80% of the time and the pain was exhilarating. I not only felt stronger physically, but I also had a newfound confidence. I slowly began to push myself in other ways too- productivity with work, due diligence with my daughter, and intentionality around my eating.

During this physical toolbox, I plan to revamp my workouts with running. If you see a light skinned, forehead running down the street... wheezing... just mind ya business. I’ll report back soon! Pray for me! LOL!

Xo,

Stevi