Love/Hate Relationship.

Those dang spin classes get me every time. Yesterday, my friend Molly and I went to a spin class, and I was really pumped. The last time I went, I barely survived. As in, I faked turning the knob the ENTIRE time and rarely was able to stand up and ride, simply sitting on my rump and still panting like a dog. I was a mess. But I was thinking that this time, I'd do a lot better. 

And I did. Just a little, but it's progress! This time, I was able to turn my knob, though I still faked it a few times. I was also able to do the stand-up-and-act-like-you're-going-up-a-hill move, even though I know in real life I would have just gotten off and walked. No lying though--all honesty here--I had to really cheer myself on. This is embarrassing to share, but it is true. If you can do all that spinning without shouting little mantras in your head, then more power to ya! You are incredible!

At one point, I was sure that my legs were going to just fall off my body and lay on the ground. And at another point, I was sure that we were almost finished because I was sweating and feeling a bit numb, but we were only 10 minutes in. Then, she had us stretching while standing on one leg, and all I could think was "Are you serious!?!" My little leg was shaking like a leaf. That's when I was certain my tush was about to meet Mr. Ground. I mean, these spin classes are serious, even if you don't do it full-out. I love it because it is an intense workout, where I KNOW that I'm going to get some work done. At the same time, I hate it because it is an intense workout, where I KNOW I'm going to pass out, walk out of the room for fear of embarrassment, or both.

But you know what--it felt good when I left. I may have been hating myself through it, but afterwards, I was encouraged. So worth it. Go be encouraged!

--A

In case you can't read the captions:

Top Left: Post Work Out (talking to Molly outside then driving home)

Bottom Left: Work Out! (Spin then stretching)

Right Column: How I felt after...