Jun 8, 2009 | 8:46 am
The Workout
For at least 4 months I have wanted to go to a class called Dynamic Group Training. Seems pretty simple but I have been afraid to go. My personal trainer had told me that I’m not quite ready for it, but that was a few months ago. Before I toned up. Before I rode 100 miles on my bike. And before today.
This morning I was riddled with all the same excuses, the same complaints, the same beating myself up, and the same expectations of the class. (See Rhonda Britten’s Fearless Living for more on these…) And this morning I reminded myself why I wanted to do this class. I want the hard core workout. I want the hard core results too.
So the word that changed my whole perspective this morning was choice. I asked myself what it was that I wanted to choose this morning. Lay in bed, resting, watching TV, and have a relaxed morning? Or take a risk and acheive a goal that I’ve wanted for months. It’s the same question I’ve asked myself over and over – but today I answered it differently. (Have you stopped asking yourself the big questions because you’re afraid of how you’ll answer?)
When I got to the gym I texted a friend for support. I got on a treadmill to warm up a bit and the excuses started coming. Then a booming voice from within said clearly, “Get off the treadmill, get into the classroom.” If you had heard the voice you would have done the same thing. It was fierce, strong, commanding, in charge. Funny – it was me all along…just a side of me that doesn’t show itself all the time.
Class was great. I felt nauseous, weakened, and spent after an hour. During which I was supported completely by Gary, Caleb, Marlin…great guys who took the time and effort to encourage me. Afterwards the trainer gave me a quick talk with some pointers for Wednesday. Later I wrote back to that friend I texted earlier to celebrate my completion.
So, 4 months of living in fear – ended. I did something I’ve never done before and that, my friends, is a tremendous gift. Not to mention that my abs are tigher, my arms are stronger, and I’m standing just a bit taller today.
Very Truly Yours,
Joseph Lyons