'I thought exercise wasn't for me. This one change proved me wrong.'

Thanks to our brand partner, Fernwood Fitness

Learning to love exercise again has been… complicated. For a long time, the gym felt like this intimidating bubble where everyone else seemed to know exactly what they were doing — and I absolutely did not.

Most days I'd cling to the treadmill, too terrified to wander into the weights section in case someone judged me for, well, not knowing what to do with a dumbbell.

And honestly, I spent years convincing myself, "Maybe I'm just not someone who enjoys exercise." Every time I'd finally build a tiny bit of confidence, something would derail me. I couldn't stick to a routine, I'd get bored doing the same workouts, or I'd tell myself I didn't have the time. Classic.

But now — after a couple of years of unlearning, trying again and taking the pressure off — I can finally say I've found a few things that make exercise, dare I say… enjoyable again. After lots of trial and error, I've narrowed it down to five things that have genuinely made a difference.

Finding the right gym.

Okay, this changed everything for me. I joined Fernwood Fitness because I wanted a supportive, all-female space where I didn't have to work out beside gym bros grunting their way through a set (no shade if that's for you). 

Fernwood are experts in women's health and fitness — whether it's through one-on-one personal training or group classes — their trainers genuinely help women feel strong and work towards real goals.

And the perks don't hurt either. Think: premium facilities, actual space to lay down a mat, a huge variety of classes, a sauna (my fave), modern equipment, complimentary breakfast and change rooms that are actually designed for women — straighteners, good lighting, the lot.

The community of women is honestly what keeps me coming back. There's this unspoken energy — people are warm, encouraging and genuinely fun to exercise alongside. We laugh about needing to double up on sports bras, swap little life updates during water breaks, and it's the kind of place where people actually remember your name.

For the first time, I feel like I can strength train without that familiar knot of judgment in my stomach. It's wild how much finding the right gym can shift your confidence and make exercise something you look forward to again.

Image: Supplied.

Building exercise into my self-care routine. 

Exercise is hands-down one of the best forms of self-care for me — even if it feels anything but after 50 squats. So I started building it around things I actually enjoy: a steamy sauna, a long bath with magnesium salts, cooking a meal that makes me feel good or simply flopping on the couch with a book.

You don't have to "earn" any of it. But layering these little self-care moments turns movement into a treat instead of a chore — a way to reset, recharge and gently nudge yourself back on track without the guilt.

The sauna at Fernwood. Image: Supplied.

Rotating my workouts.

Some people can hammer out rep after rep, week after week, with the same routine — kudos to them. But if you're like me and get bored easily, you need a bit of variety to keep things interesting.

I usually work out up to four times a week, sticking to two strength sessions and one aerobic workout, but I always leave space to follow what my body actually feels like doing (cycle-dependent, obviously).

That might mean swapping a usual session for yoga, a spin class, swimming, a run or even just a long walk in nature. Mixing it up keeps exercise feeling fresh and exciting.

Celebrating my mood first, not performance.

Honestly, half the battle is over once you start noticing how you feel before and after you move. Instead of obsessing over reps, kilometres or how sweaty I get, I started checking in with my mood.

Did that 30-minute workout make me calmer? A little less snappy? Slightly more like a functioning adult? Focusing on that emotional win rather than the numbers made exercise feel way more rewarding. Once I started chasing that feeling instead of perfection, showing up became so much easier.

I've also moved away from the whole "work out to look good" mentality, focusing instead on the health benefits — the energy, the clarity, the boost, improved strength — rather than constantly chasing visible results.

Image: Supplied.

Finding a workout buddy. 

Finding a workout buddy or joining a class can turn exercise into an experience you actually want to show up for. There's something energising about being in a room where everyone is moving together, each person focused on their own progress but still sharing that camaraderie. 

You end up discovering new exercises, swapping tips and celebrating moments you didn't realise you'd enjoy — like nailing a move you thought was impossible or laughing at your collective struggles. It's less about accountability and more about the simple joy of being part of something bigger than your own routine.

Ready to get started? Head to Fernwood Fitness and their team of expert trainers will support you every step of the way.

Feature Image: Supplied.

Fernwood Fitness is an award-winning premium, women-only gym with an unmatched level of service and product offering. We focus on strong women, real results, and fitness services tailored to you and your goals. A Fernwood membership offers you access to a supportive community, exclusive benefits, and a commitment to empowering women. Product and services may vary per club.