I've always been a relatively active person; throughout middle school and high school, I played tennis competitively and was constantly recreationally swimming. However, even though I was always active I still felt "less athletic" than other kids my age because I couldn't run a 6-minute mile or 10 pushups.

My senior year of high school is when my lifestyle began to change: I started going to the gym in order to "get in shape" since the tennis season was over. When I first starting going to the gym I HATED it and felt very self-conscious and weak, but as much as I hated it, I continued to go. Slowly I began to enjoy it more and became stronger physically in the process. I also became aware of the food I was eating and the amount of water I was drinking each day. It was eye-opening to realize how much junk food I was consuming and how it affected my body. I soon learned how to cook many delicious and healthy meals that I never would have considered making in the past.

What started off as a journey to "get in shape" physically actually changed me more mentally. I still wear the same size clothing, have never restricted myself with calories, and still can't run a 6-minute mile, but I have become a more confident individual and now love my body. I know that I am strong and live a healthier lifestyle and now love going to the gym, a Soulcycle class or for a run in my neighborhood. The mental growth and self-love I have gone through this past year is something I hope everyone can find. And for those beginning their exercise journey, remember that it does not matter what you look like physically, what matters is how you care for your body and the love you find for yourself.