| I think we can all agree that ruffled leotards, 80’s-style-leg-warmers and toast-colored tights are 3 things not to do at the gym these days.
But with the onset of all of the New Year’s gym-goers, I thought I’d share some confessions (#SMH) and offer some advice that might be helpful for you when you’re at the gym, too, sunshine.
Some may seem like no-brainers, but sadly, I sometimes do these things, so I thought we might all need a little check-up and accountability.
#1: Judge an overweight person.
Confession: I’ve looked at some overweight people and have thought,
“Why on earth are you wearing THAT?”
One day when I was thinking this exact thought, the Holy Spirit spoke to me: “Frannie, you don’t know her story. What if she’s lost 50 pounds and is working toward her next goal.”
Well if that wasn’t a double serving of humble pie!? Now, I have made a point to walk by and encourage someone who might be struggling through a workout and offer a genuine, “You are doing it!”
#2: Compare yourself to other, fitter people.
Confession: This just happened this week.
When taking a group fitness class, I seem to hone in on the fittest person, and they become my opponent.
If they use 2 risers, I am using 3.
If they use 8lb. weights, I’m using 10lbs.
Yes. I’m ridiculous, I know. Don’t judge me.
And worse yet, I use the mirrors on the walls as be-mean-to-Frannie-reflectors. That fit person often has smaller thighs than me or buffer arms or a flatter stomach. I use the mirrors as opportunities to see what I don’t have rather than celebrate the progress I’ve made.
Rather than competing in 2018, I am making a conscious effort to celebrate others’ strength and athletic prowess (and 6-pack, too) and my own, too!
#3: Go bare.
sunshine, raise your right hand and swear that you will not go to the gym without a towel.
There are lots of germs, not just during the cold and flu season, but all of the time. Always use a clean, personal towel as a barrier between you and the equipment you’re using.
Of course, I could go on and on about gym etiquette, but what’s most important is that you are participating in some exercise regimen to keep your holy temple in tip-top shape–body, mind, and spirit, to honor and serve The One who created you, sunshine. |
