The gym community is just that -- a community. I hope newcomers see a community with wide-open arms, that welcomes and is determined to build one another up. I hope they find us kind and always willing to help another member. May we show love in big and small ways, because we are not a tribe of superhumans but a collective of fitness conscious pilgrims. My own gym, I think, is a good example of what I'm talking about. At the gym, we're not Lone Rangers. We don't just train solo. We show up for others, not just for ourselves. This may mean spotting for someone on a heavy bench press, or cheering someone on their last rep of a hard set, or videotaping each other so that we can evaluate ourselves after our workout, as a friend did for me today.
When you're part of a fitness community, feelings of intimidation and self-doubt are greatly reduced, and overall mental wellbeing is given a hefty boost. Remember, behind every person you meet at the gym, there is a story. At the end of the day, it's the little things that count -- giving a fist bump, saying "Good to see ya," observing the rules of gym etiquette such as re-racking your weights. That's because it's not just the barbells and machines that make up a gym, but the people.
Have a wonderful day!
Today's step count.
Today's progress photo. Grateful for small improvements!
