When fitness goes too far: my first day with a personal trainer

Let’s be real—fitness doesn’t look like it used to, and thank goodness for that. Gone are the days when the only options were punishing gym sessions or, okay I’m showing my age here, but those VHS workout tapes with perky instructors yelling, “No pain, no gain!” These days, fitness is all about feeling good, moving your body in ways that bring you joy, and building a life where well-being takes center stage—not the number on a scale.

The big shift? Fitness is finally about you. It’s about showing up for your mental health, boosting your energy, and just plain having fun. Think less treadmill and more trail walking, dance classes, or even a VR boxing match in your living room (yes, please). Well-being isn’t just physical—it’s emotional and mental too. The new fitness mantra? Happiness counts as progress.

Okay, let me just share this so you know that I know.�

I’m taking you back to my first day working with a personal trainer. It was at this smaller, high-end gym in my neighbourhood—the kind of place that feels more like a boutique hotel than a gym. You know, all the new machines, a vibe that practically whispers, “We take fitness seriously,” and trainers who all look like they could be in fitness commercials. I hadn’t been active in a long time. In fact, because walking the three city blocks to the gym from my house winded me so badly, I had driven over (though this turned out to be the best decision I’d ever made). I’d also invested a good chunk of money for one-on-one coaching. For real though, I was ready to change my life, and I was committed. Like, actually committed. No flaking, no excuses.

My trainer seemed nice enough at first. I laid it all out: “Look, I haven’t been active in a long time, but I’m here to do the work.” And we talked more and she nodded, made direct eye contact, asked good questions. I really felt like she got it. Except then came squats. So. Many. Squats. For a solid hour, it was like she was on a mission to turn my legs into jelly. And, oh boy, did she succeed. By the end of the session, I wasn’t just tired; my legs were shaking so hard I thought they might give out right there on the gym floor. Of course I did everything I could to look cool about the whole thing.�

The main gym space was on the second floor, and to leave, I had to face not one, but two flights of stairs. I took one look at them and knew I was doomed. My legs weren’t cooperating. At all. So, I did what any reasonable person would do: I faked it. Every three or four steps, I stopped to “check my phone,” pretending I had urgent texts to read. Never mind the fact that the stairs were wired with security cameras, and anyone watching could see me desperately clinging to the railing between fake phone checks. It wasn’t my finest moment.

The worst part? I couldn’t walk properly for three days after. No exaggeration. Sitting, standing, even thinking about moving hurt. At the time, I blamed myself. I thought, “This is just how out of shape I am,” and felt all kinds of shame. But looking back? I see how wrong that was. What kind of trainer throws a beginner into that level of intensity on day one? Spoiler: not a good one. It wasn’t just tough love—it was irresponsible. Fitness isn’t supposed to leave you broken; it’s supposed to build you up.

So, here’s the takeaway: A good trainer meets you where you are. They push you, sure, but they don’t push you to the point where you’re Googling “how to walk again” for three days. If you’re starting out, don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. And if you ever find yourself faking a phone check on a security-camera-filled staircase? Welcome to the club—we’ve all been there.�

What fitness looks like today

Thankfully these days, gyms and studios are starting to ditch the “no excuses” vibe and embrace body-positive, inclusive environments. You’ll see people of all shapes, sizes, and abilities doing their thing—whether it’s yoga, strength training, or aqua Zumba. There’s no judgment, no comparison, and definitely no pressure to “fit in.” It’s like the fitness world took a big deep breath and finally said, “Everyone’s welcome here.”

Then there’s the sheer variety of options. Fitness today is as diverse as your Spotify playlists. You want a slow, meditative stretch? Try restorative yoga. Feeling like you want to bust a move? There’s hip-hop cardio for that. And if you’re into adventure, hiking and paddleboarding are calling your name. There’s something for every interest, every ability, and every mood. Because fitness isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal—it’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of thing. And if stepping into a gym or in public still feels intimidating, there are so many options at home. Virtual classes, YouTube workouts, and apps are creating safe spaces where you can start your journey, judgment-free.�