Why do I like going to the Gym?

My 7 Motivations

It may sound a little bit of a cliché but it is what it’s all about. Some choose to jog. Some prefer to walk (which I also do btw). Some need pets as an excuse (lol!). Others go to the gym.

Some friends of mine have this idea that going to the gym is like an image cult. Personally, I don’t go to the gym to feel better with my image on the mirror. I actually enjoy it. And it comes with a wide range of undisputable benefits.

During my teenage years and all the way up to the Uni years, I used to do acrobatics. I loved it! It was never a chore for me. It was so much fun! And I was good at it too. But I got into it too late so never got me anywhere competition-wise.

When I started my adult working life, I had to quit. I was too focused on both studies and work to find the availability. I still tried and kept doing some form of physical exercise maintenance.

Heck I used to have a room all equipped at home. That proved ineffective. Didn’t help the fact that it was RIGHT THERE. So I went back to lunch and evening classes, only to keep active.

I’m not a go-into-the-gym-and-help-myself-to-whatever-equipment-I-feel-like-using-each-day type of person. And I can’t be bothered to plan workouts. Nor can I afford a PT. I’m a fitness class type of person.

When I moved abroad, I made a point to go back to it more consistently. So, I got myself an annual gym membership. I thought if I forced myself to go by being conscious that I was paying for it, I would go. And it seems to be working so far.

However that doesn’t mean I don’t skip the odd class. Some nights just get too busy.

After a careful reflection, I found seven main reasons why I go to the gym.

1. It helps with my balance – I found that my balance is way better when I attend classes on a regular basis. (I can actually put a shoe on whilst standing!)
2. It relieves my headaches – I have noticed that since my acrobatics days. And unless it’s a migraine it works 9/10 times.
3. It stimulates my brain – I notice my thoughts get sharper, clearer. My focus increases and my ability to remember things becomes swifter.
4. It boosts my mood – (Very likely a result of the previous point). Mood swings vanish, my snappy, little patience self ceases to exist.
5. It increases my self-confidence – Because I feel better in myself I act more in a more confident way. And that reflects in my posture, and in my attitude as a result.
6. It’s a challenge – It’s an opportunity to challenge myself, by trying to do better or harder or go further each day. It’s a competition with nobody else but myself.
7. It’s a social activity – I always say the gym is like a second home. If you are sticking to a routine you get to know the regulars (as you become one). I see them near enough as an extended family.

For the sake of moderation, I choose to do 3 to 4 workouts/week. I stick to a mish mash combo of classes that give me a good balance between cardio and strength. I also recognise it’s important to have a break.

And the result shows in the mirror at the front of the class, as you keep going. ou can see the progress right in front of your eyes: a happy and confident human being!