Let me start off by saying that going to gym is a physical and mental commitment. For me I’ve always wanted to get in shape but was too afraid of what my surroundings (other people who go to the gym) my think. And let me tell you that, that was my problem. I kept making excuses for myself for not going to a gym. I went to my hospital and asked to get physical therapy since that’s what I was used to doing, but life had another plans for me and my insurance somehow didn’t cover it as much as I would like it to anyways. It was literally like a sign.
So I asked social media what gyms do they go to since I wanted somewhere where I felt comfortable being myself and also did not to deal with super gym-coholics (yep I just made up that word, but you know what I mean). So I came across this gym called Blink Fitness which I currently go to. And let me just tell you that my life got healthier by the second i started going.
First of all, I am a vegetarian for close to a year now! It wasn’t easy making the switch but since I’m always determined to finish what I start I wasn’t going to give up that easy. I couldn’t be more proud of myself because as a picky eater pretty much all my life, I have tried so many different foods that I would have not if I didn’t change my eating habits. Second of all, this was all about making my body healthy which involves the physical part as well. Sitting in a wheelchair for pretty much 80% of your life can take a toll on your muscles especially if science tells you that your muscles will get weaker as you get older. I wasn’t going to let that process effect me at all. So I took it upon myself to research as much as I could about different things I can do at the gym. I quickly learned that feeling safe and comfortable are two major things.
Never ever do something you’re not comfortable with especially at the gym where you can hurt yourself easier. (this advice goes for any person on this earth doesn’t matter if you have a disability or not) I took a friend with me at first just so I can get used to it: used to the people around me, the equipment that I felt comfortable using, and someone for just moral support to push me add extra mile sort to speak. Now I go alone :)
For me personally I work on my legs, arms, and my abs. For my legs I do a 20 minute walk session at the slowest level the treadmill can go. At first I did a five minute workout and then worked make way up to 20mins. I realize how tired my body got after 10 minutes which was a little shocking to me since when I was younger I used to walk so much (a huge sign I was on the right path). For my arms I use the bic-arm for a duration of 2 to 3 three minutes songs, then if I’m still alive by then go onto the pull machine which helps with your arms and abs! Sometimes I add in an extra sit up session here and there, but those are the days where I’m feeling like wonder woman.
So there you have it, my story and workout routine. After this I get extremely hungry and run off to chipotle where I get a vegetarian bowl, drink a protein shake or strawberry banana smoothie ;)
I know the gym can be a little scary but believe me at the end of the day it’s your body you have to look out for. so join me on getting in shape!
If you have any questions or any equipment you think I should try out totally let me know. Love hearing from you guys!
xo J
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