Tales from the Aerobics Studio - 2

Chapter 2: Breaking a Sweat

It’s a little embarrassing to admit, but one of my “reasons” for not exercising was - I just don’t like to sweat!  Then, if you add that my face turns bright red and stays that way for an hour, I think you can see why I prefer leisurely hikes through the woods and walking around the track. 

I certainly wasn’t ready to push myself to create sweat!

After a month of aerobic classes, however, I think I’ve had a breakthrough in the domain of sweat.  It’s really not as dangerous or distasteful as I was imagining.  I do live a life style that includes ready access to showers and laundry facilitates, for gosh sakes! And, I haven’t driven anyone away in horror with my red face (am I really not the center of the universe?). 

I’m traveling today, and, with some extra time in my schedule, I grabbed my I-pod and hit the fitness room at the hotel, and worked up a sweat!  I still don’t like it, and still resist  pushing myself to work hard, but I did it.

As many people know, music helps, so I just want to acknowledge the UNCG Sapphires - my workout music. When I was ready to quit, their song “Not Giving Up” was just right to push beyond my limits.  

Check them out on YouTube here: 

Tales from the Aerobics Studio

In the Georgetown Leadership Coaching program, we ask our students to start a new body practice as part of their learning experience. The purpose is to become a beginner again (how long has it been since you were a true beginner at something?).  Every few years, I sign up for that part of the class, too. Usually I do this in secret, just in case my usual resistance and lack of follow-through show up. I don’t want the students to see that I, too, struggle with this assignment.

But this time, I thought I’d go public.  I’m taking step aerobics classes at my local Y, and, while I can feel my body getting more fit, my mind is also enjoying the beginner's journey as well. 

Chapter 1:  The journey begins with the “Never”

A few months ago, I was taking a walk around the track at the Y and saw a friend working out in the aerobics room. She was sweating and breathing hard, and, I have to admit, having fun, too.  “I could never do that!” I told her and explained all of my excuses and reasons.  

That word “never” began working on me that very day until I finally realized that my leisurely walks around the track weren’t going to get me where I wanted to be. The next thing I knew, I started asking about the classes, checking out the schedule, finding the right clothes.

Two months later, I’m in there with her, sweating and breathing heavy too!

Question: Where in your life is there a "never" waiting to begin?