I have never been much of a gym-rat. I enjoy physical activity, but I hated the idea of going to a gym to work out with people judging me all around. I found a way to work out that really worked for me, which was fitness classes. I specifically enjoy Zumba, because I can work out with women who are similar to me. When I came down to college, I wasn't able to find a Zumba class that I really felt a part of. It wasn't the fun group of women I was used to, and it just wasn't the same. I tried doing Zumba on my own, but it wasn't nearly as fun as I hoped. I knew I needed to find a way to work out, but I didn't want to leave that comfort zone again.

Now, I have a gym just down the street from my house, but the thought of joining never crossed my mind. I tried to go to my school gym, where I have a free membership. I walked in, and every one of their 12 cardio machines was taken. I decided if I wanted to work out, I had to find another place to go. So I dragged myself to the Xperience Fitness gym just down the street. I walked in and it was nothing like I ever imagined. There were rows and rows of cardio machines. There was a movie theater with cardio machines inside. There were two free weight rooms, and an ab exercise room. There was even a pool! People were everywhere, but seemed to be minding their own business. The best part was - I knew no one.

This was like nothing I had imagined. People actually looked like they were enjoying themselves. There wasn't groups of girls standing around laughing at people. There were no guys chest bumping and growling at each other. It was just normal people exercising. Everyone put on their headphones and went about their own business. I was inspired. This was definitely something I could manage. So I joined.

The first time I went to work out, I found that I was motivated by those around me. I am naturally a competitive person, so seeing others run faster or longer than me made me push myself. I didn't feel people staring at me or judging me at all. I noticed there were people who were in way better shape than me, but also people who were just beginning to discover fitness. People ranged from 13 to 80 years old. There were men and women. There were people of all different abilities, and it was amazing to see. I spent more time at the gym that day than I thought I ever would.

Needless to say, I've gone back every day since. I ended up loving the environment I once hated so much. I took a huge step out of my comfort zone, and found something I really enjoy. If you want to join a gym but find yourself second guessing yourself or afraid of what its like, just go give it a chance. It might be more than you ever gave it credit for.