Working out is something most people want to do, but some people actually make it a priority. I have become one of those individuals that makes working out a priority. I love going to the gym and working on my physique. Sure, I am far from being someone that others aim to look like for gym goals, but who knows what the future can bring! Here are some of the things I have noticed in my transition from couch to gym rat.
1. Protein.
There are SO.MANY.OPTIONS. I understand, but I don't at the same time. There are men's proteins and women's proteins, and pre-made shakes, and powder, and whey and so much more. The specs really tell the truth though, and really, does making something have a pink label and saying 'for her' need to make the price go up by five dollars?!
2. Blender bottles
I understand the necessity, I just don't have enough of them. Blender bottle ratio to amount of things to be blended needs to be high. Plus, do you even lift if you don't have one?!
3. Motivation
Getting started is the hardest. It makes it so much better when you have lifting friends. The gym is so much more fun when you have friends to go with you. Not to mention, friends that hold you accountable. It is significantly harder to skip a day when you have people who will give you relentless crap about not showing up. Plus, it is equally important to hold them accountable too. It all works out. #ARCHfit
4. Finding accurate information.
This is difficult. Every program claims that they are the best and they can help you with weight loss goals and muscle growth. LIES I TELL YOU. It is a special kind of relief when I discover bodybuilding.com with their amazing articles that actually site their information. Pure wonder. Articles with studies that document and prove methods and good information. That isn't that easy to find. Don't get me wrong, the pinterest fitness search is always great, but finding quality information can be more difficult. Praise the heavens for bodybuilding.com 10/10 recommend.
5. Finding someone who can teach you.
Now this is the real struggle. Finding someone who can make sure you don't do everything wrong regardless of the endless research done. Execution is important, especially when it comes to handling weights. There are the people that think they know what they are doing, the people that admit they don't know what is happening, and the people who actually do know what they are doing. Everyone loves the random person that uses the equipment completely wrong. Jack Sparrows face above also captures the reaction of those who know what they are doing. Without my friends that know what they are doing I would just be a lost soul in the land of the weights. Nobody wants to be the person that looks like a fool.
6. Waiting for muscles.
There are all sorts of different timelines for when one can see muscle growth. I don't really mind any of those because I swear i just keep flexing waiting for a muscle to pop up instantly. One day they will be there and I will be so proud. Meanwhile, don't mind me, I'll just be here looking for my muscles to show up.
The gym has become a second home, and I have accepted that I have become a gym rat, at least I know I am working towards a fit and healthy life!
