“It’s better to die trying than living without doing nothing”
Deep down, I think we all have a fear of being judged or perhaps not fitting in.
We are so grateful to be able to offer a service and a space where people can experience the benefit of training and community connection without feeling out of place.
East has been a wonderful addition to our community and we absolutely love what he had to share about his experience at Mana.
EAST, TELL US WHAT YOU FOUND HARD ABOUT JOINING THE GYM?
As someone who had only lifted weights in the comfort of their own home, it was a fear of mine to lift weights in front of people who could judge not only my form, but how much weight I was lifting.
HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THAT?
Quite simply, the people at Mana never made me feel like I was underperforming and patiently corrected my form in a supportive way. This way it was never able to manifest into something that would stop me from progressing.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT BEING AT MANA?
Community. Everyone is super supportive and friendly. There isn’t any sense of unhealthy competition, rather, a community that pushes each other to reach their own goals.
WHAT WAS THE NUMBER ONE HABIT THAT YOU DIDN’T FEEL COMFORTABLE TO LET GO OF?
I have a silly habit that stems out of being too lazy to make breakfast/lunch. I constantly just neglected a meal in order to make more time in my day for other things like work or, in the mornings, sleep.
IS IT STILL HOLDING YOU BACK OR HAVE YOU CONQUERED IT? HOW?
Having routine has put an end to skipping meals for the most part. Getting up early to go to mana and making sure I eat throughout the day is essential for me. If meals are skipped, then I lose energy and struggle to make it through the day. Also, having goals that require a solid diet also helps to motivate me to eat as much as possible throughout the day.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE WHO MIGHT BE IN THE SAME POSITION AS YOU WERE, BEFORE STARTING THIS JOURNEY?
Just try it. Even if it doesn’t work for you then the worst that can happen is you stop going. The best thing that can happen is finding a group of supportive and well-rounded people that can help you grow and develop, not only physically, but as a person.
ARE THERE ANY LESSONS THAT YOU LEARNED?
Having a set goal, whether its short-term or long-term, is important in ensuring you not only progress, but actually get validation from your progress. Aiming for a certain goal by the end of the year, month, week, etc. and slowly creeping up on it makes for some of the most motivating and rewarding experiences of your life.
TELL US A FUN FACT THAT NO ONE KNOWS ABOUT YOU?
My favourite sport is water skiing. I spend most, if not all, of my summer skiing.
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Thank you East for trusting us. Enjoy your summer and we look forward to working with you in the new year.
Ana & Jose