Carrie, I don't think you're overreacting. I'm sure it's not
all in your head. There are rude people out there, looking down on others trying to make themselves feel better. Just know that it's not YOU, it's THEM. It's their problem, their distorted view of what people should look like, their lack of self esteem. If they were that confident in themselves, they wouldn't have to stare, or laugh, or whatever. And I'll bet that some of them
are thinking "good for her!"
No worries, sweetie. You just go in there, work your ass off, and feel good about yourself for doing it.
You are one sexy, strong, healthy bitch - and don't let ANYONE make you think otherwise!!!
I stopped going to the gym at work, but not because I didn't like it. I liked the one close to my office (there's another one but I'd have to drive to it), but it was small & I would sometimes have to wait for a machine. Plus, skinny little 18 year old college chicks gabbing to 20 year old buff boys about the next frat house kegger was not inspiring in the least. So when I saw a used gym-quality elliptical in the classifieds, I called & bought it that day. I paid $350 for a $2000 machine that was rarely used. Yeah, it's still pricey, but worth it for me. I like to work out while I'm watching my TV shows - prevents me from sitting on my ass & eating instead.
Saves me time by doing that too. I do hand weights & resistance exercises too. I was worried I wouldn't use it, but I've had it a while (6 months?) and I've been keeping up with it for the most part - at least twice a week, more often if the weather's crappy & I can't walk outside.