We all have those days; you wake up feeling motivated, pull on your running shoes, and head to the overly-crowded campus gym. It seems like the only machines open are next to the windows, where everyone can see you struggle, and the hot guy in front of you smirked when you tripped. Don't worry though, follow these tips and you can have a (relatively) successful workout in peace!

The competitive elliptical-er who constantly glances at your resistance level and time.

I’m a beginner, okay? Stop judging me.

The overly sweaty guy who keeps looking at you whilst lifting less than 20 pounds. Yes, I see you and am not impressed. No, our eye contact is not an invitation for you to strike up a conversation.

The muscular 60-year-old woman who is ALWAYS making you look bad

She may or may not be following you, and is on her fifth mile. Isn’t she going to break a hip? You’re doing a fast (ish) walk on your second mile…

The cute guy from English

You see him enough in class when you look like a hobo. If you catch a glimpse of him, your best move is to quickly hide.

An exercise class that has already started

You’re only 43 seconds late, but that won’t stop the teacher from shooting you dirty looks.

Those giant rubber bands!

We both know you don’t know how to use them. Just don’t try; it will end in disappointment, embarrassment, and most likely pain.

Anyone wearing Vans. Or jeans. Are you lost? Please get off the treadmill.

The person who wants to (or can) chat whilst doing anything that involves exercise.

First of all, HOW? I can barely finish this mile in under 12 minutes with all my concentration. How are you simultaneously studying, checking out that guy, and trying to chat with me in an almost sprint? It’s just not human.

Anybody who wants to “spot” you who isn’t a trainer or a friend. Stranger danger - this person might get sweat on you and will make comments about your “form”.

Avoid being next to someone who is Instagram famous. This is probably her second workout of the day and she will make you look bad.

Machines that you don’t know how to use.

Yes, those gym rats are laughing at your lack of knowledge and the fact that you just fell off a stationary object.

Any type of sports team

This one is self-explanatory.

Wearing a shirt that shows how much you’re sweating… this includes grey, or any other color. Go shirtless. No, go naked. Maybe you should just stay home.

You might throw up after/during. After that type of public embarrassment you’ll probably never be back.

DO NOT AVOID:

Good-looking trainers

Exercise

Water

If your new year’s resolution is to get fit (like mine is), then follow my easy and helpful tips! All joking aside, it’s important to keep fit, and not strive to be skinny. It’s hard to avoid the pressure to weigh less, especially when there’s an army of long-legged blondes wherever you go on campus. The fact that the only healthy dining option has an occasional bug in its salads, and the other options are questionable at best, doesn’t make the situation any better. Just remember that to do well in classes and get a real workout in, you need energy from real food!