Growing up, it seemed like I had one of the world’s fastest metabolisms. I would eat so much fried food, candy, pizza, and juice, and whatever else I could get my hands on up until my summer before college and remain a twig. So many people would ask me how it was possible. Considering I still eat some unhealthy things, it is important I do a lot of exercise. This blog is not about How I Eat (that’s next week) but instead about How I Work Out. I think they are equally important in maintaining my healthie lifestyle.

Exercise is something I have enjoyed my whole life, but the way I view it has changed drastically over the past couple of years. I was involved in numerous sports throughout elementary, middle, and high school, including competitive cheerleading and lacrosse, so conditioning is something I am used to. However, when I got to Penn State, I didn’t want to get involved in any intramural sports, which was a good decision for me, but it also meant no more forced exercise.

Luckily, the new IM Building on campus has all the amenities I need. (The White Building is closer to my dorm, but I prefer the IM better.

When working out, I truly believe that the mind controls all. If you have a positive attitude and set goals for the days and stick to them, the time goes by fast, and you feel so good about yourself afterwards. That being said, I only ever use machines or workout apps that are timed and are easy to understand. That way, there is no frustration or ambivalence about what I will be doing before beginning a workout.

Additionally, I also only choose workouts/times/distances that I know I can finish. Unrealistic workouts and pushing yourself too hard like I have in the past, will oftentimes lead to injuries or dissatisfaction with your progress. If I feel like I can only run one mile a certain day, I set my goal for one mile, or if I feel like I can only hold a plank for 90 seconds one day, I set my timer for 90 seconds and stay true to the end. This way, I am in complete control of my progress.

In order to get motivated on some days, I talk to my sister and friends who also like to stay healthie, and hype each other up. I also like to go onto Instagram and go through fitness models’ profiles to remind myself how others are trying to live their best lives… However, this can get dangerous, and if I ever feel insecure, it is important to try not to compare myself, or stop looking altogether.

As for what I do at the gym or specific workouts I do, it varies, but I usually consistently do some sort of cardiovascular activity and abdominal activity. The ellipticals at the IM are great, and it lasts 35 minutes, which I think is very appropriate. Whenever I do ab stuff, I use weights or medicine balls as much as I can (The Nike Training Club app is great and Kayla Itsines BBG program, for this, but I add or modify some of their workouts to make it better for me). I am no expert on fitness whatsoever, but I have seen improvements in my body by doing my own thing, and I urge you all do the same.

Stay Healthie!