I am a first-time gymgoer, and man exercising sucks!

For me, year 2017 began with a list of New Year resolutions dictating my diet and health plans. For years, I have survived on junk food--fried chips being my one true love. However, realization soon hit home when I had trouble fitting into my old jeans.

To make matters worse, my mum asked me to donate some of my old favourites to charity because I was too big for them. Oh boy! Did that hurt. So, I resolved that I would eat healthy and exercise if I have to, just to fit into them.

Thankfully, my office has a gym within the premises and I was relieved that I would not have to commute anywhere else. Plus, mandatory six-month plan would force me to slog every day, given that my salary would get deducted automatically.

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With the will to conquer mountains, I went into an overdrive buying jazzy gym wear, eagerly waiting for my first session.

Cut to an hour after a very mild workout session, I walked out staggering, asking my friend not to desert me on the way home.  I felt drained, my legs were wobbly, and I couldn't think straight. Seriously, how on earth do people manage to spend hours in the gym without turning insane.

It's no easy feat, let me tell you. Also, if you think it's been months since my venture into the new, healthy life, then allow me to clear your misconception. It's just been five days! But, trust me--it feels like an eternity.

I seethe with jealousy when I see people around me running on the treadmill or lifting weights like it's a cakewalk. I, on the other hand, sweat like a pig two minutes into it. Thank God for my friend, who keeps motivating me to soldier on. If left to myself, I would just give up after every two minutes.

New-found respect brims in my heart for all those who sweat it out at the gym every day. And for those who flaunt chiselled abs and a toned bod-I'll just say, now I know it's not as easy as it looks. You have to test your stamina and endure excruciating pain to achieve the body of your dreams.

Those who are planning on turning into a gym rat this year, here's a tip: don't expect overnight changes. Also, ask a friend to tag along so that you don't give up on your resolution.

Also read: Looking for a simple way to tone your body? Begin crawling