I've never been much into fitness or exercise. In fact, most people would call me downright lazy. I've always been relatively slim, so it's never bothered me much. But when I noticed some extra weight settling around my mid-section, even though I hadn't had to go up in clothing size, I figured I should do something about it before it got too late.
My first step was to try and recruit friends and family to join me at my condo's gym complex. I had a few willing participants, so I was set. But, life is life, and I still haven't been able to actually get them out - though I do believe they will join me as things become less crazy. I know how it goes to be "crazy", so I certainly can't blame them.
In the meantime, I got back into the swing of things on my Wii Fit. I used to use this thing religiously last year - but at some point I gave up and barely looked at it. The little balance board sure was surprised to see me again! (Haha) ... I started doing the yoga, strength training and aerobic exercises, and of course my daily body test, but it wasn't quite enough.
So here I am, at Week #1. On Monday, I decided to brave the scary place known as the gym all by myself. And surprisingly, not only was it "not bad" - it was actually kind of fun! I did some stretches before heading down, and did an hour on the treadmill - it passed by pretty quickly when I had my rockin' tunes going. Throughout the week, I tried various machines - the elliptical, bike and rower - I'm still a little weary of anything "weight" based, because I don't know the proper technique. I also discovered that I actually prefer working out with people around, rather than when the gym is empty. Maybe it's just me, but seeing other people around me, especially if they're in really good shape. It's a great motivator for me!So, now is when I call on you, loyal readers... what did you do when you first started? Keeping in mind that I am a total gym newbie - I'm starting from "extreme" scratch. How have you kept it up for the long haul? Any tips are definitely appreciated!
(Also, totally unrelated, but if you have a sec, could you click "like" over at This Link and vote for a photo of mine in a contest?! Thanks!)
I HIGHLY recommend getting the Zumba fitness package for Wii Fit. It's been my obsession lately. It's so fun, you don't even realize you're working out. and by the end of it you work up SUCH a sweat!
ReplyDeleteAs for going to a gym, see if you can get a consultation with a personal trainer. The consultations usually aren't terribly expensive, and it will give you a good idea of how to use the machines.
Thirdly, ENJOY THIS BEAUTIFUL WEATHER! Take every opportunity you can to get outside, even it's just for a small walk. Every little bit helps, right?
Ok. I am really bad at starting at the gym and then not going. Mostly because it is a pain to get to – but summer is almost here so, well bleh.
ReplyDeleteBut when I am really going strong- when I get the best results, it is when I have music in my ipod that makes me want to move it. Here is the thing, it is not the music I would listen to in my house or car or even in every day life. It is remixs and house and dance music. And a lot of it is world wide too. Any way – it is just a suggestion. I should charge my gym ipod and take some of my own advice.
I love my sketchers shape ups at the gym btw- they give you that little extra without having to be on the tread mill any longer.
Katie - I've definitely been thinking about Zumba for the Wii... I feel like it might actually help me get more coordinated too LOL. I hate dancing normally, but something like Zumba could probably help with that too.
ReplyDeleteI'll try and find a personal trainer, but I don't really want to get sucked into that yet...
I've already been heading outside and going for walks, or playing on the swings at the Lakeshore! Hehe... I'm loving this weather!
Mo - The playlist I made is mostly from stuff that I do listen to, but it's all upbeat stuff... I'm totally loving it!
I was looking at those shape ups last year - I wasn't sure that they would actually work!