The Age of Fitness: My Journey from High School to College

I didn’t start taking my health seriously until I was a senior in high school. Back then, I didn’t understand the importance of fitness or the impact of my lifestyle choices. My weight was steadily increasing, and I was labeled the “fat kid” in school. Despite my growing weight, I didn’t see it as a problem; I just shrugged it off. My dad tried several times to motivate me to join organized sports, but I always had an excuse. I was caught up in a cycle of poor self-esteem and apathy, and it wasn’t until my senior year that I realized the need for a change.

At that fateful moment, I made a decision: I wanted to become stronger and more confident, and I was tired of feeling weak and self-conscious. So, I finally mustered the courage to step into the gym for the first time. The initial workout was daunting, but that was just the beginning. Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to staying fit and healthy, and my fitness journey has been ongoing for over six years.

The Turning Point: College and Beyond

When I entered college, the picture changed. I joined the college volleyball team and maintained a certain level of fitness. However, I didn’t pay much attention to my nutrition or the workload from training. That was until I started visiting the gym with more frequency and started learning about fitness nutrition and proper workout plans. That’s when I really began to prioritize my fitness.

Since my freshman year in college, I’ve been continuously working on improving my fitness and understanding my body better. I’ve learned the importance of proper nutrition, workout planning, and staying fit. While there were some mistakes along the way, I’ve learned a lot and grown stronger as a result.

Lessons Learned from Early Mistakes

Looking back, I realize that my early forays into fitness were filled with mistakes and missteps. Here are some of the key lessons I've learned over the years:

Mistake 1: Supplements Are Everything

I believed that without supplements, a good physique couldn't be achieved. However, taking supplements without proper guidance can lead to side effects. As the name suggests, supplements are an alternative to your food. If you can meet your macronutrient needs through natural food, you don’t need to take any supplements for life. Proper nutrition is the foundation of any fitness journey.

Mistake 2: Heavy Lifting Promotes Faster Muscle Growth

I often lifted heavy without ensuring proper form, which led to shoulder injuries. While it's true that lifting heavier weights can lead to faster muscle growth, it's crucial to maintain proper form. Focus on quality over quantity to build muscle effectively and avoid injuries. Always prioritize form over the weight you lift.

Mistake 3: Imaginary Goals

Many people have idols and desire to achieve a physique similar to them. I admired John Cena's physique and tried to emulate it by taking anabolic steroids and other drugs to expedite the process. The truth is, for a natural lifter, muscle growth happens gradually. It's important to have realistic goals and take a natural, sustainable approach to fitness.

Mistake 4: Protein Is the Key to Muscle Growth

I was convinced that consuming more protein would result in greater muscle growth. This led me to eat only high-protein foods. However, our bodies have a limited capacity to absorb protein. Excess protein is either turned into energy, stored as fat, or excreted. For fitness enthusiasts, it's recommended to consume 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight. Focus on a balanced diet and proper workout routines to build muscle effectively.

Now more than ever, I understand the importance of a balanced approach to fitness. I encourage others to learn from my mistakes and prioritize proper nutrition, form, and realistic goals. Staying fit and healthy is a journey, and each step we take brings us closer to our goals. My fitness journey continues, and I look forward to sharing my experiences with others on this path.