PUMPING IRON

Gym goers share perspectives on working out, maintaining fitness

emily chen & ainsley guzman opinions editor & section editor

For many people, the term “gym rat” brings to mind a certain image: a person who is obsessed with their appearance, spends countless hours in the gym, sticks to a strict diet plan, and makes the gym their personality.

However, for individuals like senior Leah Miller, the gym is a space to explore different types of movement and celebrate the capabilities of the human body.

“There are so [many] negative connotations about gym rats,” Miller said. “I wouldn’t necessarily say I’m a gym rat. I would say [I’m] more a lover of movement and activity, and I get to celebrate the amazing things our bodies can do.”

While physical fitness is certainly a priority for those who frequent the gym, it’s not the only factor at play. Miller’s focus on strength and endurance speaks to a broader appreciation for what our bodies can accomplish beyond what they look like.

“It’s so cool to have space to explore different kinds of movement,” Miller said. “Physically, I’m much stronger and have more endurance, but visual appearance isn’t necessarily my goal.”

A commitment to healthy eating is certainly part of the gym experience, but it doesn’t look the same for everyone. Miller’s approach to nutrition is grounded in listening to her body and providing it with what it needs rather than adhering to a strict diet plan.

“I did a lot of work with a dietitian [to] learn how to intuitively eat,” Miller said.

“I definitely try [to] prioritize protein just because my muscles go through so much breakdown they need that to rebuild. So I am more strict about what I eat, but I wouldn’t say I have a diet plan.”

Despite the physical and mental benefits of going to the gym, body image concerns are still a common experience for many. There are broader societal pressures to look a certain way, even when engaging in activities that prioritize physical health.

“I think everybody who [works out] struggles with how they look no matter how much progress they see,” senior Breyton Dixon said.

For some, the gym can be a source of empowerment and newfound confidence. The journey of working on oneself, both physically and mentally, can lead to a positive transformation and a newfound appreciation for the body.

“In the beginning, I’d wear baggy clothes so I couldn’t see myself [in the mirror],” freshman Nam Vu said. “[But after] I started seeing progress, I’d take my clothes off and see the new me and get better confidence with that.”

For many individuals, the satisfaction of going to the gym comes from seeing tangible progress in their strengths and abilities.

“[Seeing my progress] makes me happy,” sophomore Ethan Walton said. “[It] shows me dedication, and showing up every day has a positive effect.”

In the end, the gym is a space for personal growth and discovery, where individuals can find what works best for their unique bodies and interests. The gym is not a one-size-fits-all experience. The most important thing is to find joy and fulfillment in one’s movement and activity.

“My advice to other people who work out is to honor your body and what it wants. Some people love to lift, and some people love to run,” Miller said. “We all have different genetic makeups, and you just have to do what works best for you.”