Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Out of place in a real gym

My mother transferred her Fitness First membership to me and I started there yesterday. I go to the gym in Palembang but thats just a hotel gym with slightly dated equipment and just a few cardio machines. Plus, when I go, I'm almost always the only person in that room.

I must admit feeling quite uncomfortable the first few minutes I was there. It took me awhile to work out their locker system and then when I worked out how to use one of the elliptical machines, I dropped my locker card under the neighboring machine and had to lie on the ground to stretch my hand in to get it. Yes, I looked like a real klutz!

AND, to top it all off, I think I might also be the Ugly Betty of the gym in terms of gym fashions. I believe in wearing my comfy old t-shirts. After all, I'm just going to be sweating in them. And in this case, my old t-shirts are really old since they are from the time I actually lived in this house - school days! Luckily, I do own a pair of those calf length legging things. Everyone else seems to be on a fashion shoot for gym wear! OK, I exaggerate but seriously, they are definitely in some uniform gym wear that is on the trendy side.

I feel awkward there but since I stopped working, I get that way easily. Maybe its a confidence thing. Anyway, I'm there to go for as many classes as I can because there is no such thing in Palembang, hopefully build some strength/stamina and of course people watch.

9 comments:

John A Hill said...

Amanda,
I used to work at a health club. There were those that were there to exercise and then there were those that were there to show off their fashion and their killer bodies (both men and women). Some of the clubs had the reputation of being a "meat market."

If you are there for the exercise, I wouldn't worry about what you are wearing...be comfortable. On the other hand, if you are there to attract looks from the men at the gym...we expect you to post pictures!

Cynthia said...

Gyms here are exactly the same way. I think folks spend more money and time shopping for the gear than working out:P Good for you...keep it up!

Bilbo said...

Amanda, as usual, John is exactly right. When I used to go to the gym, I had a great time watching the show-offs who were there to impress as much as to work out. Agnes made me buy spiffy new workout clothes, but I was always more comfortable in my ratty old t-shirts and shorts. Be comfortable. And once you get all toned and buffed up and send John the pictures, please info me!

John A Hill said...

"Amanda, as usual, John is exactly right."

Bilbo is my friend!

Mike said...

I think video would be better. Then John could analyze your style. Bilbo and I will help of course.

MamaGeek @ Works For Us said...

You so aren't the ugly better I'm sure Amanda. Kudos for you for going!!

Amanda said...

John, you really have very varied work experience! Whats your take on personal trainers? They were the other thing I noticed about the gym. A significant number of people there had 1 on 1 training even though its so expensive.

Nap Warden, your running reports always come to mind when I'm in the gym :)

elizabeth embracing life said...

People watching is the best and I never care what my fashion is when working out. I am like you, I am just going to be sweating and I look in the mirrors and even laugh at myself I am in such bad shape. LOL

Unknown said...

You go for the gain not the glam!!!

I'm sure there are many more Ugly Betty's than you. I have lived in Brissy.