"Get Out The Way...Whoa!"

 

We're a few weeks into January and you’ve probably noticed the gyms are busier and the classes are more crowded. I love seeing new people at the gym and it makes me happy that they’ve started to work out. But, there are some people who really get upset when “their” gym gets busy and their space is “invaded” by newcomers.

  I've been taking fitness classes for a LONG time. Over the years, I've gone from step aerobics to kickboxing to spin classes to Zumba to high intensity interval classes. There's a certain camaraderie that comes with regularly attending a class and it's something I love about group fitness.

  However, through the years, I've also seen the darker side and that "Mean Girls" mindset always seems to surface this time of year. 

 

Years ago, when I took step aerobics in a church basement class in Ohio, there was an older woman in the class who always put her step in the same spot. She had a good angle to watch the instructor and plenty of space to move around. But if anyone so much as walked toward that spot before she put her things there, they world be " encouraged" to find another space to stand in the class. Everyone was so afraid of her reaction that they would warn newbies in the class to keep away.

  In spin classes, certain bikes become "(insert name here)’s" bike and regulars know to stay away from it. I’ve seen a new person come in to a class and happily start adjusting the bike, only to face a staredown by the bike’s “owner”!

 In other crowded group fitness classes, there seems to be a territorial war going on this time of year. We all like certain spots in the room, but it gets a little out of hand when a fight breaks out over who was in the spot first.

  I get it. I like certain spots in the room too and it’s nice to have room to move around and a good view of the instructor. But, try to remember the first time you tried a new class. You’re already a little bit intimidated because you don’t know the routine. You might not know any of the people and they all seem to be BFFs from way back. Wouldn’t it have been nice if someone moved over a foot or two and made you feel a little bit welcome?

  For a lot of people, just finally getting to the gym is tough enough. A little encouragement from those of us who have been there could make a world of difference.

 

So, this year, instead of lamenting the crowded classes, and complaining about the busy gym floor, why not remember why you started going to the gym in the first place. You wanted to get healthier, stronger, fitter and happier. Are you getting there?

  Well then, maybe a your positive and welcoming attitude can help someone else get there too.