It is summer! School is out (except for those in summer school), the sun is shining (everywhere except western Washington), and there are new goals to be set (except for those of you who, like me, don't deal well with change).

Studies show that 66% of people who set resolutions dare themselves to become more fit. Even though nearly three-fourths of those people fail massively, I bowed my head and made the same resolution. Although I do enjoy certain physical activities, I don't like them all and I wanted to change that.

Here are some of the phases I've been experiencing while undertaking this goal:

1. Inspirational Speeches from Sibling(s)

You know the deal: "You've got this." "Never give up." "Your family is counting on you." Siblings or friends use any phrases that make you realize your honor is at stake, so you better not stop now!

2. Starting the workout

"This workout is so easy." You feel invincible! No sweat! Literally. No. Sweat.

3. Reality Check

It all feels great, until it doesn't. You start to sweat, your heart is running a marathon, and you can't feel your legs much except for that throbbing pain... Ahh! The pain!

4. Almost done...

You feel that adrenaline rush and you can't help but fight through it! Might as well since you're nearly done.

5. You've finished a hardcore workout!

You don't know what to feel... but relief! You're done. You're done.
Until tomorrow, that is.

6. The day after your first day.

This day is well-remembered. Every step you take, every move you make, your muscles will remind you about that extra burpee you just had to do.

7. I wanna' give up!

We've worked out for a few days in a row now, and the pain is still there. It's not going away, if anything it increases. You want to quit but you can't help but keep at it!

8. THE Feeling

You're the boss! Look at you! You've persevered and can't help but feel proud of yourself. You feel accomplished and productive, and above all you feel happy! Right on!

9. Falling in love with exercise

You're really enjoying yourself, especially when you're done with working out for the day and THE feeling (point 8) keeps with you throughout the day.

10. Lifestyle

You love the new lifestyle you've found and wonder if people know about this. It's a wonderful thing!