This week, in an almost empty gym, a young woman ambled up and asked me in SPANISH, “have you always exercised?” She had blond hair and a braid down her back the width of my arm. She’s Colombian and has lived in Bacalar four years. I was thrilled by her question.
I think many of the locals that work out at the gym think that I don’t speak Spanish, which is barrier number one to conversation. Barrier number two is that I don’t socialize. I’m not chatty, I tend to focus on my work-out, nose to the grindstone. And then there’s the biggest barrier, I’m old.
I have worked on overcoming these barriers, except for the old part. There’s nothing much I can do about that. Research clearly shows that a contributing factor to longevity is having close personal relationships, right up there with diet and exercise. In Mexico it is thought rude not to greet everyone with, “buenos días” upon arrival. I make a habit of looking at people and greeting them every morning. There’s been little change in camaraderie however, until this week.
I know I’ve talked about this topic before. It is not easy for me but I’m determined. I asked the receptionist her name and now use it when I arrive each day and this week I made a new friend. I will attempt to nourish this seedling. Wish me luck.
DOS TORTAS
the adventures of dos tortas 
It’s good to talk. When in Turkey we found most people wanted to practise their English on us and our Turkish never really got beyond pleasantries.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Another barrier is the loud music. Not an environment conducive to chatting in any language.
LikeLike
No loud music at our community gym, I’m delighted to say 🙂
LikeLike
Good start! I am super impressed with your regular working out.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Older women, for many reasons are not exercising. There’s no support and gyms are intimidating. Another young woman spoke to me today! You can do it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hooray for another person speaking to you!
I’m still on the road, but I joined a Planet Fitness because I can use it everywhere. Mostly, I got it so I can have a safe place to sleep if I’m stuck and I shower in the morning. But I make myself work out a little bit before the shower.
My problem is I really don’t know what all those machines are.
There is a small gym about 10 miles away from me in Arizona, so when I get home, I may join it. I will have to quit Planet Fitness, because the closest one is 100 miles away!
If I could afford to move to Bacalar, I’d join your gym and work out with you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Years ago I had a book called Body For Life. It’s still available. It taught me everything I need to work out. Also ask the gym for an orientation. They are glad to help if they’re not busy. Also I’m a big believer in clases. Ask for modifications.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks.
LikeLike
My Dad was 44 when I was born. 300# Lawyer. When the Jewish family down the street got an 8″ TV, he got a 22″ Zenith. So I became a couch Potatoe.
LikeLiked by 1 person
There’s always time to start.
LikeLike