You've heard me talk about my daughter Meredith countless times, and today she's finally joining me for a conversation I've wanted to have for a long time.

Meredith is certified in personal training and yoga, but one of the things I love about her fitness story is that she did not begin as someone who automatically knew what she was doing.

We talk about an early fitness experience that damaged her confidence, the comment from high school that she still remembers, how she discovered yoga, and how she eventually went from working out at home to feeling comfortable in a weight room.

Then we get into MY gym story.

Meredith was the person who encouraged me to walk into a gym when I was almost 60, still losing weight and completely convinced everyone would know I didn't belong there.

So I asked her the questions so many of you have asked me:

What if you've never been to a gym?

How do you stop worrying about everyone watching you?

Should you hire a personal trainer?

How do you know whether a trainer or class is actually right for you?

Can you start at home instead?

Do you need expensive equipment?

And what if you're still waiting until you finally feel “ready”?

This is not a conversation about becoming a fitness expert. It's about figuring out how to begin — even when you feel uncomfortable, inexperienced or completely out of your element.

Because sometimes the hardest part of the workout really is just getting yourself through the door.

This episode shares our personal experiences and general fitness information and is not individualized medical or exercise advice. Talk with your healthcare provider or an appropriately qualified fitness professional about what is right for you.