Yu Xinrui-Regina

     The catalyst for my fitness journey came in the summer of 2023 when I realized I couldn't fit into the pants I bought in 2022. Upon weighing myself, I discovered I had gained 5 kilograms over the course of 2022. Without a habit of exercising during that year, I knew the added weight wasn't muscle but pure fat. From that point on, I embarked on a fitness journey, spending the entire summer of 2023 cultivating the habit of consistently going to the gym. In these two months, it was challenging to see changes on the scale, especially after anaerobic training when weighing is inaccurate due to muscle water retention. Facing the numbers on the scale became the first lesson I gained from fitness—learning to confront them with equanimity. Changes in body measurements may provide a more intuitive indicator.      At the onset of my fitness journey, I often found myself preoccupied with observing others' workouts or worrying about potential ridicule. I ...

     Life in the country was very monotonous, but it was the most unforgettable experience of my childhood. This is a small village. The tallest house is my grandparent's house. Saturday. September,15th (Photo/Yu Xinrui)      In the countryside, everyone lives according to the sunrise and sunset. Before the sun rose, the farmer's uncle worked in the field. My grandparents were no exception. Get up early, complete part of the farm work before the sun fully rises, return home to complete the housework, and feed the chickens, ducks, and geese at home. I woke up naturally, sat on the bed, and called Grandma loudly. Grandma would come over and dress me and braid my hair. One on the left, one on the right.      We need to prepare lunch for chickens, ducks, and geese at noon. Because I used to follow my grandmother, I also learned how to prepare food for chickens. There is something called chaff . We can mix chaff and cornmeal and add corn or leftov...