Humorous Meme Exposes the Painful Truth of Starting a New Exercise Routine

Mason Riverwind

Updated Sunday, April 28, 2024 at 12:00 AM CDT

Have you ever decided to embark on a fitness journey after years of inactivity, only to find yourself regretting it immediately? Well, you're not alone! A viral meme featuring an adorable penguin perfectly captures the mixed emotions of starting a new exercise routine.

The meme, which has been shared across social media platforms, showcases a two-panel image split horizontally. In the top panel, the background is a vibrant red, with bold white text that reads: "AFTER 10 YEARS WITHOUT DOING ANY EXERCISE I HAVE FINALLY BOUGHT A BIKE." The penguin, situated in the center of both panels, is depicted in a jubilant pose, its flippers spread wide in celebration.

However, the bottom panel reveals a shift in background color to a contrasting blue. The text, also in white capitals, continues the narrative with: "OMG EVERYTHING HURTS." The penguin remains in the same position, straddling the line between the two color panels, symbolizing its unchanged state before and after the presumed bike ride.

This clever meme perfectly captures the rollercoaster of emotions experienced by many individuals when reengaging in physical activity. The initial enthusiasm and excitement of taking the first steps towards a healthier lifestyle are quickly met with the harsh reality of post-workout soreness.

The relatability of the meme has sparked a flurry of comments from fellow fitness enthusiasts. One user wisely advises, "Small steps... going too hard is why people buy gym memberships in January and never go again." Another user shares their personal experience, stating, "Being crazy sore after your first workout in a long time is normal. You'll recover way faster after even two or three. Drink a lot of water, it helps."

Several comments offer practical tips for easing into exercise. One user suggests making biking a regular daily habit, even if it's just for 30 minutes. "Make it so that exercising on your bike becomes a daily need and habit," they advise. Another user recommends investing in a comfortable gel seat to prevent discomfort and ensure a more enjoyable experience.

The meme also serves as a reminder that progress takes time. As one user shares, "No pain, slow gain was my motto. If I hurt, I wouldn't continue." It's essential to listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard, especially when starting out after a prolonged period of inactivity.

So, if you've recently dusted off your old bike or embarked on any exercise routine after a long break, don't be discouraged by the initial soreness. Embrace the meme-worthy moments and remember that with time, consistency, and a bit of humor, the pain will subside, and you'll be well on your way to achieving your fitness goals.

This viral meme perfectly encapsulates the bittersweet experience of diving back into exercise after a significant hiatus. It serves as a reminder that it's okay to start small, listen to your body, and find joy in the journey, even when everything hurts. So, keep pedaling, stay hydrated, and embrace the penguin-like perseverance as you embark on your fitness adventure!

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View source: Imgur

Top Comments from Imgur

ifounditunderthere

Small steps... going too hard is why people buy gym memberships in January, and never go again...

InfocalypseRising

Being crazy sore after your first workout in a long time is normal. You'll recover way faster after even two or three. Drink a lot of water, it helps.

LollipopFromHell

Make biking a regular daily thing; even if its only 30 minutes a day. Make it so that exercising on your bike becomes a daily need and habit

Twrecks123

My best advice is to slugger on one of those wide cushioned gel seats. If you are miserable, you’ll give up. Get your other muscles used to biking and being active and the. You can change out the seat later. JMO.

digitreal

I tell myself it's a good hurt, because you're improving yourself.

TheobromineAddict

Although some people sneer at them, I found gel saddles and padded riding shorts plus gel padded glove's to be pretty essential. And get the height and tilt of your seat perfected.

GravyEducation

Baby steps, you will do yourself no favors giving yourself an injury that will take you a while to recover from. On big hills, hop off and walk it. Literally no shame in that. Walking is a good cooldown in between your cycling. Good luck. I just started biking again too. It's fun and a nice quick way to get to the nearest store for a little snack for later or a Gatorade for now.

swedeonamoose

It is quite surprising how quickly you actually start to drop once you start training after having done very little of it, down almost 10kg in a year from just talking daily 7k steps walks.

flacoloco

thats what im afraid. I been in a desk job for 7 years ..... Im starting with 15k steps daily, next month I start bike around the block

Rynestrm

That’s similar to what I did. I started going for long, fast walks trying to get active again and hurt my ankle so now I can’t walk much more than 10 min.

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