Approaching the gym, as I coasted slowly through the car park, there was a certain stillness in the air and I noticed a few other members walking up the long concrete path like little ants on a mission …. a mission to lift some heavy stuff!
I walked up the path, smelling the freshly brewing coffee from the nearby cafe, and I began feeling butterflies in my stomach. The red, circular, “target-shaped” symbol on the wall of the gym stood out to me this day, and at that moment, I knew something great was going to happen – I was on target for something big!
Gazing around the strength room, while standing at my station, I remember seeing a purple-faced meat-head type in the corner giving me the “what’s that girl doing in here” look. I felt a little self-conscious about what I was going to do, in case I would publicly fail in the attempt and confirm the weakness Mr Meat-head saw in me. Then, with a nudge of confidence from envisioning Sarah Connor from T2, I re-focused my attention to the target …
My sweaty hands grabbed hold of the bar far above my head and, after dangling there helplessly for a split-second, I went for it; squeezing with all my might, knees curling, shoulders shrugging a little as I made it to the bar and achieved my very first Chin-Up!
But I wasn’t finished there …
Adrenaline now pumping through my body, heart in mouth, legs quivering like crazy, I said out loud:
“ONE MORE!”
With every ounce of effort, my chin made it over the bar once again!
Stepping down, shaking and giggling (yes giggling), I smiled from ear to ear with beaming pride, I glanced over to Mr Meat-head who simply nodded with approval and respect.
I DID IT!