I arrived 15 minutes early. Signed my name on the sign-in sheet and waited for the door to open.
As more and more people began to arrive the sign-in sheet got full. There were no more bikes left. People continued to arrive. In bike shorts. And bike shoes. And knowing other people waiting for the class on a first-name basis.
“I know, can you believe it? This class never gets full. I can’t believe I can’t go in. Ugh, this is so frustrating.”
“Ahhh, it’s January, remember? Just wait until February. The class will be open again.”
The buzz was all about how this class never gets full but now “the regulars” had to walk away and go fight for a treadmill due to “the newbies January gym-goers.”
I kept my eyes glued to the floor. It was clear that myself and two others were those “new” people taking up someone’s bike.
I avoided eye contact. I thought about how much I wanted to say “I’m not just a ‘January gym-member.’ I come almost every morning when the doors open. I got here 15 minutes before you and signed-up well before half the class arrived! I’ve run marathons!”
Then I realized those words sounded too familiar. I was just the one saying them under my breath when I couldn’t get a treadmill at 6am last week.
I was humbled. I never thought about what it feels like being the “new” person. Maybe the people at the gym at 6am are there because they just got a new job and their schedules have changed. Maybe they had an injury and can no longer play a certain sport.
Maybe the “January gym-members” don’t last until February not due to lack of motivation but because they don’t feel welcome. And who wants to volunteer to show-up somewhere day after day where they feel unwelcome?
And. IT’S. A. GYM. Aren’t we “health-freaks” always trying to inspire others to be more healthy? Yeah, I realized that something is definitely backwards.
I completed the class. I actually felt stronger than I did last week. Faster. My posture felt better and the 60 minutes didn’t seem like 60 hours this time.
I wiped down my bike and left feeling exhausted and humbled.
I also promise I won’t keep updating you with every class I go to 
However, after sharing about my first spin class, many of you asked if I would return. The answer is yes. And if you’re wondering if I’ll return again, after this class. The answer is yes. I will return and hope to do so as stronger, kinder person.
Oh, and if you need some fuel after your most recent workout, this combination of tofu, veggies and soba noodles will do just that.
Soba Noodles with Veggies and Tofu
Keywords: stir-fry entree vegetarian vegan tofu pasta
Ingredients
- 6 oz. soba noodles
- 2 tbs. rice vinegar
- 3 tbs. low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbs. sesame oil
- 8 oz. extra firm tofu, cubed
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots, sliced
- 1/2 cup snow peas, trimmed
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1/3 cup corn (could be frozen)
- Pinch of crushed red pepper
Instructions
1. Cook soba noodles according to package directions. In small bowl, mix together rice vinegar, soy sauce and sesame oil. Pour about half into a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook tofu in sauce for about 3 minutes per side. Remove tofu and set aside.
2. Pour remaining sauce into skillet. Add onion and cook about 4 minutes, until soft. Add carrots, snow peas and garlic and cook about 3-4 minutes over medium-high heat. Add in corn and cook until heated through. Toss with tofu and red pepper. Serve over soba noodles and enjoy!
~Have you tried a new class lately (at the gym, the local art store, etc)?
