Today was a milestone for me. Waking up this morning, I could feel the anticipation bubbling inside me. Not because it was a Sunday, but because today marked my very first time attending an F45 class. With the clock hitting 0900, I found myself stepping into the F45 Penrose studio, ready to take on the ‘Lonestar’ class.
I won’t lie – the initial moments were filled with self-doubt and intimidation. At 295 pounds, I felt heavy, and every step seemed labored. Glancing around, the shiny equipment, the fit participants, and the lively environment were both enticing and, at the same time, a bit daunting. My mind raced with worries of being laughed at, fat-shamed, or just sticking out like a sore thumb.
The Lonestar class started, and there was no turning back. As the minutes ticked by, something remarkable happened. The environment, which I’d initially perceived as intense, began to change in my eyes. I realized that nobody was looking at me with judgment. They were too engrossed in their routines, gazing at the LED screens, or focusing on their exercises. A sense of camaraderie emerged, as I found myself surrounded by individuals who were there to better themselves, just like me.
Every station, every exercise, became a testament to my commitment. With the encouragement of a fantastic coach and the support from a fellow participant whose name eludes me (though I’m kicking myself for forgetting), I felt my initial hesitations melting away. Every high-five, every word of motivation, fueled my determination. Despite my tight hamstrings, underdeveloped muscles, and concerns about my knees, I persevered.
By the end of the class, the weight on my shoulders was not from the fitness exercises but from the misplaced burden of self-doubt I’d been carrying for too long. I’d done it. I’d survived and thrived in my first F45 class. The sense of accomplishment was overwhelming.
As I left the studio, my thoughts were already on the next challenge. Tomorrow, at 07:15, I’ll be back for the ‘MVP’ class. While I have scant details about what to expect, I’ve learned that it’s a fixed equipment cardio session with a twist. Even-numbered stations will change on the second lap, but the equipment remains consistent. Intriguing, to say the least.
I’ll admit, after today’s experience, I’m not only excited but also better prepared. Planning to arrive a tad earlier, at 0700, to soak in the ambiance, maybe stretch a bit, and possibly order an espresso (even if I might not drink it).
To anyone reading this who might be feeling hesitant about joining a fitness class or any new venture due to age, weight, or any other concerns, remember my story. At 53, with my physical challenges, I found strength in a supportive environment. You can too.
In closing, if you’re ever in the vicinity, consider checking out the F45 Penrose. Maybe you’ll see me there, running my own race, striving to become a better version of myself. To F45 Penrose, and to all those who supported me today, a heartfelt thank you. Tomorrow, the MVP awaits, and I’m ready!
Glossary
- F45 Penrose: A branch of the global fitness community known as F45, which offers high-intensity group workouts that are functional, varied, and timed. “Penrose” likely refers to the specific location or studio.
- Lonestar class: One of the many classes offered at F45, taken on the initial day of the narrative. The specifics of the workout routine in this class aren’t detailed in the blog.
- MVP class: Another F45 class, characterized in the blog as a “fixed equipment cardio session with a twist.” During the second lap of the routine, even-numbered stations change while still using the same equipment.
- Cardio session: Cardiovascular exercise that raises the heart rate and is intended to improve the efficiency of the cardiovascular system in absorbing and transporting oxygen.
- LED screens: Light Emitting Diode screens used in F45 studios to display exercises, timings, and sometimes heart rate or other metrics.
- Fitness challenges: Refers to exercises, routines, or classes that test and push an individual’s physical capabilities.
- Self-doubt: A lack of confidence in oneself and one’s abilities.
- Camaraderie: Mutual trust and friendship among people who spend a lot of time together, like in a fitness class setting.
- Underdeveloped muscles: Muscles that have not been exercised or conditioned regularly, resulting in a lack of tone and strength.
- Hamstrings: A group of muscles running down the back of the thigh, which can often become tight or injured with lack of stretching or overexertion.
- Espresso: A concentrated coffee brewed by forcing a small amount of nearly boiling water through finely-ground coffee beans. Mentioned in the narrative as a potential pre-class drink.
- Heart rate monitor: A device used to continuously monitor the heart rate, usually in real-time. Often used in fitness settings to track exercise intensity.