Angelina Hue

I started yesterday in a mental haze. I was struggling to concentrate as distant jackhammering from the nearby construction droned for hours. Coupled with the caffeine from my morning coffee, I could feel my anxiety level rising, making it impossible to focus on anything. After some hours of tolerating this uncomfortable state, I couldn’t take it anymore and turned to a familiar outlet for relief.

Channelling Nervous Energy into Purposeful Movement 

On impulse, I signed up for two sessions on ClassPass for later in the day. 

Side note: I had stopped using ClassPass during the pandemic and recently resumed my membership after being laid off at work. This, along with learning to swim again, has become my way of showing up for myself. Exercising more with intention has helped to redirect my restlessness into constructive activities during this transition.

When I renewed my ClassPass subscription, I made a deal with myself: step out of my comfort zone and try new workouts. I’ve since verified that spin cycling and Muay Thai boxing are not for me, especially since I struggle to follow the rapid moves. On the other hand, I’ve discovered hot yoga and have an increased appreciation for conditioning (cardio meets strength) group classes. When working out alone, I usually don’t push myself too much, but in a group setting, my competitive side emerges as I aim to conquer arbitrary numbers set by instructors. That was exactly was what transpired yesterday.

Class One: Strength-Cardio Conditioning

The class started with modified burpees and snatches, followed by explosive box jumps and thrusters. Then we had to do sprints on the Airbike, which I dread. My eyes were squeezed shut as I summoned all my willpower to get through them. Looking back with a clearer head, I’ve to concede that the Airbike is a remarkable machine that uses the rider’s energy to make them work harder through air resistance. I left the gym buzzing with adrenaline, a welcome reprieve after the frustrating start to the day.

An Unexpected Compliment

After the first class, I stopped by a bakery to grab some bread to refuel. The cashier asked if I was going to the gym. I replied that I had just finished a class and was heading to a second one. He looked surprised and then shifted his glance to my shoulders and arms. “Well, your gains are definitely showing,” he said. His comment caught me off guard. While I’ve been exercising more than ever, I don’t have a specific physical goal. I just want to get stronger, swim smoothly, and challenge myself to try new things. That some “gains” are becoming apparent is a nice acknowledgement. 

Class Two: Rediscovering Old Moves

The next class revolved around the Xformer machine, a spin-off of the Megaformer from the Lagree franchise. My last experience with a Megaformer was four years ago. Thanks to muscle memory, and despite my jelly legs after the conditioning class, this session turned out to be easier than I expected, which was encouraging.

A Timely Reminder

It was 8:30 PM when I left the studio and I was famished. I wanted to eat soon to keep my body from depleting my hard-earned lean muscle mass. However, I was overwhelmed by the options as well as the surrounding noise and lights. Instead of eating out, I picked up some items from a deli, headed straight for home, and made a hearty dinner plate with leftovers, kimchi, crudités, and surplus bread that I rescued at half price. It was a great decision and I was happy to enjoy tasty, healthy food in a calm space.

What began as an unsatisfactory day turned into an energising one. It reminded me of the power of movement. Despite the noise – be it figurative or literal – that surrounds me, purposeful movement can help me regain my focus. Sometimes, all it takes is a little intention and the willingness to go out of my comfort zone.  

On occasions when everything feels out of control and overwhelming, what do you do to redirect energy and regain focus? How do you make space for yourself?