The Gym: A Love–Hate Relationship

Post Gym Glow!!

Let’s be honest: the gym and I don’t always get along.

Some days, I walk in feeling motivated, determined, ready to take on the world. I leave buzzing, proud of myself, and so glad I showed up. Other days, just getting there feels like climbing a mountain. The machines look intimidating, the mirrors feel unkind, and every excuse under the sun tells me I’d be better off at home with a cuppa.

Sound familiar?

The truth is, many of us have a love–hate relationship with the gym. It’s not always easy to show up, especially when you’re tired, busy, or doubting yourself. But here’s what I’ve learned: the magic often happens in the moments we don’t want to go, but we go anyway.

It’s not about punishing your body or chasing perfection. It’s about showing up for yourself. Moving because you can. Building strength not just in your muscles, but in your mindset too.

The gym isn’t the only place to do that, of course. A walk in nature, a dance around the kitchen, yoga on the living room floor — they all count. But there’s something about pushing through the gym doors, facing the discomfort, and realising you’re capable of more than you thought, that rewrites the way you see yourself.

So yes, I’ll keep moaning about it sometimes. I’ll keep dreading the treadmill on a rainy Monday morning. But I’ll also keep going. Because every time I do, I prove to myself that I am stronger, braver, and more committed to this life I’m building than the little voice that says “don’t bother.”

And that, for me, is worth the love–hate.

Helen 💛

What about you? Do you love it, hate it, or fall somewhere in between?