I used to be quite shy. Although I had a large circle of friends, when I was surrounded by people I did not know, I tended to shrink back. I was terrible during parties.
One day, my best friend and I went to the gym in our neighborhood to interview one of the instructors there. It was for an article in our college paper. After the interview, he showed us around the gym and let us try a few of the machines there. It was a fun experience that I never forgot.
Exactly a week after, I found myself enrolling in the gym. I started by joining simple aerobic classes and doing 30 minutes on the treadmill. Eventually, I graduated to more complex stuff like Pilates, yoga and Zumba. I also started doing weight and resistance training.
Regularly exercising helped improve my confidence. I started to feel good about myself. I was happier and healthier. This radiated in my actions, and I gained more friends. Eventually, I overcame my shyness, especially at parties.
I once thought that exercise was just for looking good. I now know more. Exercise is for good health, for building confidence, and for a better life.