I have recently moved down to London from Glasgow, for a new job. A very exciting thing to do? Yes, but also pretty daunting, I won't lie. I don’t know many people here, and it’s a completely new environment in every way. It’s definitely fair to say that I am trying to find my feet in this new, fast-moving city!
As someone who enjoys sport and exercise thoroughly, and who sees it as compulsory to maintain good physical and mental health, I was determined to join a gym.
After hours searching the internet, I found one close by my new flat, and was so excited (but definitely nervous) to go along. It was filled with muscly men lifting weights, so I was slightly intimidated, but I knew that this shouldn’t stop me, and so I took the plunge and signed up to be a member. After going to the gym a few times, I discovered that there was a weekly dance class at the gym and with a membership, it was free of charge!
Dance is something that I’ve always loved the idea of, but never really fully immersed myself in.
I deliberated, but eventually convinced myself. I thought: new job, new city, new sport!
I booked into the class and went along one Sunday morning, filled with both apprehension and excitement. Anxiously, I thought everyone would know each other, they’d all be amazing dancers, and that I wouldn’t be able to keep up.
I was wrong! I had the best time and everyone was so welcoming and friendly. The choreography was quite difficult, but with concentration and focus, I picked up most of the moves and really enjoyed following the routine. Learning all of the individual steps and then putting them all together with music successfully at the end is actually massively rewarding. It also helps to improve your dancing when you go out at the weekend with your pals- you should try it!
I now go every week, and think the class has helped me settle into London life.
It is a constant, with the same friendly faces, that I know I can look forward to each week.
Now that most exercise facilities are open again after the horrific time we have all faced during the pandemic, I would definitely encourage everyone to find a new activity to take part in. It's a great way to meet new people and discover something else you may find enjoyable.
You might find yourself saying: "I'll do it soon", but to that I'd say that there’s no time like the present, and who knows - it could result in you finding your life-long passion or finding some new best friends! After all, tomorrow never comes.
I have learned that you definitely don’t need to have experience in something to give it a try, and that applies in any area of life. Once you adopt this mindset, the world is your oyster and you will say yes to lots more things, living life to the fullest.
