And We're Off

I find that a great start to mornings where I'm not scheduled to work bright and early is to hit the gym and get my daily dose of government recommended physical activity.  I've also noticed on days where I delay going to the gym until "later" in the day, oftentimes "later" never does come, so it's best to start the day with it. I'm a relative newbie to the gym world and, in these past few months of increasing my physical activity level, I've observed a variety of characters at the gym.  So, as I pump iron in the weight room or book it on the elliptical as I listen to my latest "MOVE IT" song on my workout playlist, I can't help but wonder about everyone around me. If you also go to the gym, you might have noticed the same characters as well and could very well describe them in more detail than me, but here it goes...

The Fitness Gods- 

AKA the personal trainers.  These are the individuals who are prime examples of what many would strive to achieve from their gym memberships.  They have chiseled muscles that might as well be compared to marble sculptures carved by the world's most renowned artists.  They float about the main floor flaunting their physical achievements in hope that fellow gym goers will sign a contract to work with them exclusively in an attempt to improve their workout routine.  It amazes me that these gods seem to get along swell with each other, cracking jokes and such when in reality they are in competition to have more clients.  They remind me of overbearing sales people at high end stores who are out for their commission.  These gods are amicable individuals who are good natured and care about fitness, but at times I can't help but feel pressured by them to sign a contract because they cast doubts on whether I exercise correctly. I will admit however that for someone who is unsure of their exercise routine the fitness gods are an excellent resource when getting started.

Mr. Muscle- 

Or perhaps Ms. Muscle, but I usually notice this individual in the male gender.  Mr. Muscle is the guy who is so ripped it looks unbelievable.  He enjoys strolling the main floor in sleeveless muscle T's that highlight massive arm muscles and are so tight you can make out clearly defined pecs, not to mention a six-pack. He often can't resist walking past those full length mirrors without stopping to check himself out from all angles.  He always has a serious expression like he's on a top secret mission and all others must steer clear of him.  He also relishes in exercising at peak hours and highlighting to all who might care, just how much he is capable of bench-pressing.

The Happily Retired Couple- 

Sigh, some of the kindest people I've ever had the pleasure of interacting with while at the gym.  These are the folks who continue to care about their health in their old age.  They can often lift weights much heavier than me, but unlike Mr. Muscle, they don't show off their capabilities.  They socialize with one another at the gym and encourage others to push themselves to continue to exercise.  They exercise and do it correctly with one goal in mind- their health.  To them it isn't about their physical appearance but the internal benefits of fitness.  I admire them for this and hope that in old age I too will care as much about my health as they do. 

Merciless Mom- 

You've seen her.  The woman who puts all those surrounding her to shame.  She will have all the steps down in Zumba class and can outrun those around her on the treadmill.  She's competitive and does things right.  The gym is her personal time away from her motherly duties and she takes it seriously. I strive to care about my fitness as much as the merciless mom, but as of right now that takes way more energy than I can invest in my physical fitness. Personally, I steer clear of the merciless mom.  She is a kind woman, but the gym is her escape and you don't mess with that.  

Classy Creeper- 

Ah yes... At times I'm guilty of being the classy creeper.  As I observe the fine male specimens that surround me on the main floor I definitely take note of good looking gentlemen.  However many of these fine gentlemen are also guilty of creeping on others at the gym.  This is most obvious in the group classes that the gym offers as these classes are primarily taken by women.  The classy creeper will loiter on the weights that surround the massive glass windows that allow everyone to see what is happening in the group classes.  At times the classy creeper won't hide his blatant creeping, especially when the yoga pant clad women are bending forward and stretching their legs. And in Zumba class with a particularly provocative move- the classy creeper will stare open mouthed in awe at the ladies in class.  Yes it is sad that this does not shock me. 

Trooper Ruby- 

Last but not least... the trooper.  This is the person who is desperately trying to take control of their health by coming to the gym at least 3-4 times a week.  This is the person who desires toned lean muscle in addition to leading a heart healthy lifestyle.  The trooper tries different options at the gym to determine what works best and tries to create a regular routine.  The trooper is often the person who admires the fitness gods from a distance and hopes that one day their muscle definition will improve to resemble the gods. Yes... the trooper is me and I have no shame in desiring muscle definition.  I'm just happy I care enough about my health to come to the gym regularly.

So these are my observations.  Looking them over they do seem silly, and are not to be taken too seriously. Fitness is essential to lead a healthy life and I admire all those who make physical activity a priority in their life. I just enjoy observing individuals at the gym and make up stories in my mind about said individuals.  It makes the gym much more entertaining and I enjoy that much more than being intimidated by the fitness buffs surrounding me.