avskk wrote: » Today, for the first time in my life, I pumped actual iron. I went to the end of the gym that usually intimidates me, I chose a barbell and plates, and I used them. I didn't worry about what I looked like. I grunted and puffed. I spent time getting my grip balanced without worrying that people were staring at the fat girl just squeezing a barbell. I did deadlifts. I pushed that barbell over my head. I balanced it on my shoulders and squatted slooooowly. I loved it. I loved it, I loved it, I loved it. I wish it were Wednesday so I could do it again, right now. I wish I'd started ten years ago. Thanks, MFP strength advocates -- I wouldn't have even tried it if I hadn't read so many posts about it here.