When I decided to lose some weight and get in better physical shape, I had no idea of how to go about it. I’d always been focused on academics during high school and college. I never played any organized sports. Rather than games of tennis, tag football and kickball, my family spent our free time playing cards and board games and watching movies. I started by buying myself a full wardrobe of expensive workout clothing. I found shirts, pants, jackets and socks that promised to wick away moisture and elevate my performance. I spent a fortune on a pair of sneakers that were supposed to help me achieve greater speed and endurance. While I was dressed as impressively as a professional athlete, I didn’t know how to begin. I tried going for a run and nearly killed myself. My muscles were so sore the next day, I missed a day of work. I then attempted to follow along with various workout videos. I found that they were either so simple that I was downright bored or so difficult that I couldn’t keep up. I finally did some research online and came across a fitness blog that recommended signing up with a personal trainer. My personal trainer has completely changed my life. After discussing my immediate and long-term goals, we started meeting for hour-long sessions three times per week. She showed me how to properly warm up, stretch and cool down. She taught me the importance of targeting specific muscles while resting others. Although I continue to meet with my personal trainer, I’ve learned how to workout effectively on my own.