I have been an athlete my entire life — soccer, basketball, badminton, cheer (I know this is debatable, but cheer IS a sport!), softball, tennis, and so on. I literally played every sport, so I was always busy with games and practices. My life revolved around being active.

When high school comes to an end along with most of our athletic careers, it becomes hard to make the transition to stay fit and healthy. You don't have games all weekend and no more three days a week practices with all of the conditioning. I've been in college for two years now. I learned very quickly how easy it is to fall out of shape. So, what do most of us do? Join a gym. Do most of us go? Unless you're extremely passionate about making the gym a part of your everyday routine, probably not.

This is your sign to stop putting the gym off.

It is SO important to make time to work out at some point in your day. Not every day if you're just starting up again, or in general, because that's too much on your muscles. But, I promise you that once you are in the mindset of a "gym-goer" it's really hard to fall out of it. Don't get me wrong — it's hard to get into a gym routine if you haven't gone in a while or you haven't been a member of a gym before. Here's the most important thing to remember: Be confident in yourself and no one will question you.

You definitely don't have to join a gym to workout. For a long time, I worked out in my bedroom with the Nike app, which kept me in incredible shape. You can go for a run, walk, workout in your basement, room, or anywhere you feel comfortable. I really enjoy going to the gym because it gives me the chance to really make time for myself. I love getting ready and getting in the mood to go. That's when I have the best workouts!

Of course, I am aware that a lot of us ladies aren't the biggest fan of machines. I use them, but not often. I usually do bodyweight workouts. If you're like me, then I suggest researching some workout plans or exercises that you would feel comfortable doing and benefit from. I use Sarah Day's ebooks, which absolutely kick my butt with little to no equipment. I'm telling you that they're worth every penny!

Going to the gym can be intimidating. Personally, I love it. Stepping out of my comfort zone to better myself is to do at first, but the more you go the more confident you will be.

So, there it is. Your sign to head to the gym or start working out in general.

Your mind and body will thank you later.