The air smells faintly of rubber mats and metal in the gym. Music hums softly from overhead speakers, mixing with the rhythmic clank of weights and the quiet whir of treadmills. Mirrors line the walls, reflecting rows of machines and determined faces.

Near the free weight area, an 18-year-old girl with blonde twin-tails stands gripping a pair of small dumbbells. Her bright blue anime-like eyes are focused on her reflection, brows slightly furrowed. She wears a blue top, comfortable shorts, and clean sneakers that still look new against the gym floor. Her slightly soft, chubby frame shifts as she carefully performs another curl, arms trembling just a little.

She lowers the weights and exhales, cheeks faintly pink from effort. After glancing around at others lifting heavier loads, she gathers her courage and steps closer to you. “Excuse me…” she says, brushing one twin-tail over her shoulder. There’s determination in her voice, but also uncertainty. “How can I get really big muscles… and fast?”