Day 20: Fitness Friends - Workout 2.0

In my opinion, for any long-term task to be successful, you need some sort of support. Now the mistake that I made is looking to my friends and family to give a damn about my struggle. They have their own struggles that deem more important than my fat woes. I have friends that are struggling with their weight and don't want to go to the gym with me because I live so far. Family members that are overweight and don't care will tell you that you look fine just the way you are.  I told a co-worker that I was tired from getting up at 5:45 to go to the gym and she said "Stop girl! That is just not worth it."  That was pretty funny. Then, there are the friends that have canned responses and send links to sites for weight loss, but sometimes I need to see a face or vent about how much my butt hurts!!

I found it easier to find people that are on the same journey.  I am a very private person, so the easiest way is finding people online.  I follow fitness groups on IG and FB and Twitter.  Not only do I get motivation, I am able to share my progression.  I recently joined a private group on FB Workout 2.0. There are thousands of people sharing their stories of weight loss, muscle gain, clean eating, workouts, challenges.  It is amazing to see really.  So many people learning from each other and motivating each other. There are a few assholes that have been working out and clean eating for 20+ years that have smart ass comments, but they are outnumbered.

In cycling class today, my fitness instructor, Mandy, walked up to me and asked what happened to my buddies that used to come with me.  I was shocked she remembered me from my few appearances over the summer.  But what I appreciated the most was her comment after I explained they will not be joining me anymore: "It doesn't matter.  You're here now and you're doing great.  You have all of us here for support."  People in the class smiled and nodded.  Gave me a tremendous push and I coasted through that class! 

 

I know that in the end, it is me that has to get to the gym, but having those pats on the back and words of encouragement are always good.  Besides, you never know the next persons story.  My presence may be helping someone too. 

 

My workout today:

Morning:

treadmill and stairclimber

Arms

 

Evening:

Cycling

Abs

 

30 day challenge:

25 sit ups

30 crunches

45 squats