Until recently, my body saw little to no exercise. I hate the treadmill, I hate feeling like I can’t breathe, and I hate having to take so many precautions due to my medical needs. It was easier to do nothing than to deal with the consequences of exercise medically for me. Since I’ve gotten on a new medicine that helps regulate my digestion, I don’t have quite so many stomach issues and so-painful-I-feel-like-I’m-dying stomach cramps following a workout, but I’m still not where I’d like to be.
I’m trying though because I know if I don’t, my body won’t change. I want to be healthy and live a long, full, happy and adventurous life, and one thing that will help me get there is exercise. Honestly, it’s the most obvious thing in the world–ALL research points to exercise leading to longer, healthier lives, so why not just do it?
Of course, anyone who has started an exercise regimen after being a bit sedentary will huff and say “Easier said than done.” Trust me, I know…I said it too. Oh wait…I’m STILL saying it! And huffing. Not huffing like…cement glue or anything…I’m just huffing in a big, angry sigh kind of way. Nevermind.
So let’s get down to what I’m doing now, what I’m changing and what needs improving.
My Exercise Habits
- Now, I’m biking daily, or as often as I possibly can. In the days that I have ridden since I got my bike, I’ve seen a significant improvement in the way my body feels when I’m out riding. I’m getting faster and stronger, and usually the landscape will take my mind off of the pains of getting exercise.
- Since biking is now my main form of exercise, I’m going to try to do some strength training on our bowflex to supplement the exercise. It will help my legs get stronger, and it’ll help me develop more upper body strength, of which I have none.
- During the summer, I try to be more active with our dogs…taking them on hikes and trails with Mike. The last time we did this though, we severely underestimated the amount of water the 4 of us needed and I kept blacking out in the woods. Moral of the story: I shouldn’t go out with them in severe heat and I should always prepare myself with extra water. I’d like to continue to be active with them in a safe way!
- Occasionally, I’ll force myself on the treadmill and pump up the speed to a light jog until I feel like I’m dying. (yes, I know I’m dramatic, but seriously I effing hate exercise and if I’m going to do it, I’ll be as dramatic as I want. so there.) I hate it every step of the way, but I should try to get on more often.
- As a few of you mentioned yesterday, swimming would be a fantastic way for me to get a safe workout. I’m not sure if I’d be able to join a gym or club with the little amount of time we have left in the States, but I might look into it. The only time I’ve ever swam laps was my freshman year of high school when we had to for gym! I remember thinking it was much harder than it looked, and I was too self-conscious about being in my swim suit in front of my classmates to truly enjoy the experience. I think I can put aside those self-consciousness issues now though and give it a try! It’d be ideal to have a pool in Spain, but we’ll see
This is my kind of swimming. Photo taken last summer. PS…this year’s tomatoes are kicking last year’s tomatoes’ asses
So now you all know my dirty little secrets about my eating habits, exercise habits, medical issues, goals and challenges! I appreciate all of the comments and encouragement I’ve received from you and I’ll keep you updated on my progress as I go along. I am not perfect, and I’m very resistant to this kind of change (hence the drama), but I know it’s in my best interest and I just need to buck up and do it.
I am so lucky to have my husband, who is so supportive of everything I try and do. Mike has been a wonderful cheerleader for me and encourages me every step of the way. He never judges me (okay, maybe he judges a little when I make cookies and eat five) and every time I slip, he’s there to remind me of why I’m trying in the first place. Thank you so much, honey! I love you!
