Getting My Fitness On

I have never been an athletic person, nor am I competitive in nature.  I am on a kickball beer league with my husband, and he loves to tease me about how 'calm and collected' I am the whole time.  It's not like I don't want to win; I just enjoy socializing and chatting more than playing the game.

Last summer, I joined a gym with a friend.  It's a no-contract, no-enrollment fee gym, so I figured I had nothing to lose.  For some reason, I had always had horrible anxiety about going to the gym alone.  In fact, a few years before, I had a gym membership for three months and never went once.  I am so beyond grateful that my friend was my catalyst in joining.   

I initially had some anxiety about the new experience, but with my friend's support, it got easier.  At times, I would have to go by myself.  This time was different because I started going to classes at the gym.  Before, I would go the gym, hop on an elliptical, get bored, and leave within 20-30 minutes.  It was hardly an effective workout, nor was it worth the time and effort of going to the gym.  I absolutely loved the classes and actually found myself (internally of course) competing with fellow class members.  My mantra was (and still is), "if she or he can do those extra reps, so can I!"  Group exercise has truly changed my life and my fitness philosophy.

Now, I am full on addicted to the feeling that I have AFTER I leave the gym.  There is truly no better feeling in the world.  I feel so fulfilled, and my head is so clear after working out that I hope I don't ever stop!

How do you stay fit/healthy?