I used to hate going to the gym and lifting weights. I felt awkward and bored and complained the entire time. It wasn't like competitive cheer, the sport that had consumed my life for 12+ years up until college; there was no team, no tumbling, no stunting... just you and some weights. I just didn't connect with lifting and I felt out of place at the gym, so I never went. Until last year, when I was fortunate enough to live with my big brother, a natural bodybuilder and personal trainer, who showed me the ropes and would take me with him to the gym. After watching him prep and compete for his first show, I decided I needed and wanted to do something meaningful with my life again and find something to be dedicated and passionate towards. I picked a bikini competition 10 weeks away, and with the help of my brother creating my workouts and macro plans, I stepped on that stage in better shape than I had been in my whole life, and had a sense of pride and self-confidence I hadn't felt in years. I even took home first in my division and first overall! Now, I couldn't imagine where my life would be without working out or competitions.

I love working out for the exact reason I used to dread it : it's just you and some weights. It is the one time of day where you get to be alone and get away from the stress of school and work and have "me" time. It's the time where you get to discover yourself by pushing the limits and building your strength inside and out.