Yesterday, on Facebook, I saw that one of my friends posted a status update about the apparent lack of propriety exhibited by one of her fellow gym goers in a co-ed class. It made me smile as it's no secret that things on this side of the ocean are definitely a lot more relaxed when it comes to nudity.
Today I went to the gym. Lenny, as usual, was on my treadmill. It was ok, though, as we've reached an unspoken agreement. I now start of with a couple of kilometers of rowing during which time Lenny can do his walking and schmoozing with the ladies. Did I mention that Lenny is part of the Buenavista Social Club that gets to the gym early like me? There are more men than women in his 55+ age bracket, so the few gals present sure get doted on with "hellos" and bisous! Anyhow, Lenny relinquished my treadmill and I got to work. Since I didn't have anything urgent to do afterwards, I decided to stay for the Zumba class given by our nice receptionist/instructor Sophie. As I entered the disco room I noticed that Lenny and his good pal had also decided to join the class, positioning themselves right behind Sophie. Whatever keeps the pulse racing, right?? It was a great class and Lenny & Co still have some moves!
Afterwards, I jumped in the shower and was putting on mascara when Sophie walked in with her gym bag. That's when I nearly blinded myself. She cheerfully stripped down (hey it's her business, but the unexpected reflection in the mirror made my hand jump!) gave us ladies a wave goodbye and entered a shower stall.
Living here gets one used to public displays of nudity, but there's still the element of shock that comes with it. Maybe it's that the French are rather discreet and reserved in other areas that we, foreigners, navigate with much more ease.
