I've had it. I'm disgusted.

[sue71]

Ok, I've looked in the mirror a few times lately, and seen some recent pictures of myself :eek: , and let's just say I'm not a happy camper. :mad: (I won't go into details so as to not depress myself, and let's face it, no one's interested.) So, I've decided I need to start exercising & working out.

I live in downtown LA, and my apartment building has a workout room. I was thinking that I could walk after work (at the track) or on the treadmill, use the eliptical (sp?) machine a little, and ride the recumbent (sp again?) bike. Maybe start w/ 30 min for 3 days a week? I need to start with something that won't take a lot of time, and that won't frustrate me into quitting after the first week.

My problem is that whenever I start something like this, I have a problem staying committed long term. I'm looking for suggestions on ways to stay interested (I know it takes a while to see results) and how to keep with the program, so to speak. My work schedule is less than optimal in terms of outside free time, so it's very easy for me to make excuses not to work out (and in turn, do something else). Plus, I'm the queen of excuses. :rolleyes:

So, all you knowledgeable folks on the board, any suggestions? Tips or tricks? Ways to keep me from bailing? I won't even consider spending money (other than maybe some workout clothes) on a gym or a bike or anything of the sort unless I know it won't be wasted. Maybe we could start a DBR support group to help each other out. Any help is appreciated!

Thanks,
Sue71

[TillyGalore]

You need a support system, perhaps a workout buddy. Someone or people whom you will make a commit to and will in turn, they will support you through this.

[sue71]

You need a support system, perhaps a workout buddy. Someone or people whom you will make a commit to and will in turn, they will support you through this.

Sounds good in theory, however there's no one that lives close enough. :( Any alternatives?

[TillyGalore]

Sounds good in theory, however there's no one that lives close enough. :( Any alternatives?

Internet buddies.

[blazindw]

Also, mix in exercises/activities that you enjoy. If you play a recreational sport, like softball or kickball, do that. If you have a dog, take it out for a walk. All of these activities burn calories and are fun to do as well, which will motivate you to do it again.

[bhd28]

My favorite is using books on tape (well, on mp3). If you enjoy reading or books on tape, this can be a good one. Basically, find a good book and only let yourself listen to it when you are exercising. If you are like me (and you really get into good books), you will find yourself craving to go jogging or walking or whatever so that you will be able to listen to the book. Shoot, I will even go an extra 10-15 min just to make sure I finish a good chapter.

Of course, this is dependent on finding a good book... and another... and another, but even 1-2 good ones will give you weeks of exercise and help get you into the habit. Best of luck!:)

[dkbaseball]

The best way to get the kind of visible change that keeps you motivated is weightlifting. It is, perhaps counter-intuitively, the best way to lose fat, the theory being that in building new muscle you are burning fat 24/7. If your time is limited there are all kinds of high intensity lifting routines that you can get done in about 20 minutes once or twice a week.

As far as aerobics go, if you have old, aching joints like I do, you might find that running or anything else that puts much stress on the joints will soon become a disincentive to getting out there and doing it. I've been doing water jogging with a floatation vest, which puts no stress on the joints, and it's working well. It's actually kind of a pleasant, easy workout, and you won't see the same results early that you would with running, but if you stick with it you'll find that you're getting the benefits of aerobics.

Also, in terms of the visible change that keeps motivation up, I've had great luck with Iyengar yoga. Very good for the posture, lifting up sagging chests.

The old standby, walking, is indeed good for losing weight, but you've got to do a lot of it. Both times I've lived in Europe and walked everywhere, I've lost 15 pounds in two months, settling into my natural weight. I think walking after every meal had something to do with the quick weight loss, as I always eat out. A mile or two a day of wlaking is good for your health, but I don't know that you'll see significant changes in your body. Walk everywhere, though, and you will.

[Jim3k]

The best way to get the kind of visible change that keeps you motivated is weightlifting. It is, perhaps counter-intuitively, the best way to lose fat, the theory being that in building new muscle you are burning fat 24/7. If your time is limited there are all kinds of high intensity lifting routines that you can get done in about 20 minutes once or twice a week.

As far as aerobics go, if you have old, aching joints like I do, you might find that running or anything else that puts much stress on the joints will soon become a disincentive to getting out there and doing it. I've been doing water jogging with a floatation vest, which puts no stress on the joints, and it's working well. It's actually kind of a pleasant, easy workout, and you won't see the same results early that you would with running, but if you stick with it you'll find that you're getting the benefits of aerobics.

Also, in terms of the visible change that keeps motivation up, I've had great luck with Iyengar yoga. Very good for the posture, lifting up sagging chests.

Swimming works well for me; but you have to spend at least 40 minutes, IMO.

But keep in mind, you need to take in fewer calories than you burn. If your basal metabolism requires 1000 calories per day, you need to take in less. If your workout requires burning an additional 300, then you can up your intake a little more, just so long as you keep the intake less than you burn.

Several years ago (5?), we had the 'big fat lie' thread which discussed this (and much more). It was one of the best threads ever on the Board. Maybe its best points can be resurrected somehow. The 'lie' was the fact that fat intake doesn't necessarily translate into fat for you -- carbs do more to increase fat than fatty foods. Ultimately, though, it's a question of calories.

[Jim3k]

Errm... I just remembered that the Big Fat Lie came from a lengthy NYT article in 2002, by the same name. If you can find it (via archive or your library), it's worth the read. It may have had several parts over a few days.

[OldPhiKap]

iPod, and cranking music. I would be ashamed if folks saw what I had on my iPod, but most of it has a kicking drum beat and keeps me moving.

I agree with the post re: weight training as well. Tone muscles increase your metabolism and make you look thinner. I'm obviously not talking about bulking up -- just toning up.

Of course, none of this helps much if you don't cut your calorie intake. Each meal, try to improve just a bit (slightly smaller portion; skip the carbs; etc.).

They say that it takes about three weeks for something to become a habit. So keep at it, and don't be discouraged by the fact that it takes some time to see results. I didn't get this out of shape overnight; I won't get back into shape overnight.

Best of luck -- I'm with 'ya.

[Fish80]

Hi, my name is Fish80 and I'm a runner. I'm addicted. I've been a runner for 3 decades.

For me, I need the stress release. I love to run outside, the more rural the better. But with my work schedule and raising a family, it is always hard to make the time. Early morning is the time that I'm most consistently able to run, so I get up early and get my run in first thing whenever I can. On a good week that's 5 or 6 times.

The two keys to success are (1) find something that you enjoy and (2) make it a routine.

[devildeac]

Lots of tips/suggestions but no guarantees:

1. make it a habit-every AM or everyday at lunch or every PM for example
2. stretch before each workout and cool down afterwards
3. make it appropriate for your age/weight/situation
4. start slowly and in small blocks of time
5. take the stairs instead of the elevator
6. park farther away from the mall/store and walk an extra minute or two
7. don't make excuses for not working out (too tired/cold/hot/rainy)
8. if you like excuses, have an alternative (like a TM, elliptical or stationary bike for those excuses)
9. weigh weekly and have goals
10. reduce snacks/portions/trips through the buffet lines
11. combine cardio with weights if you desire
12. make it as inexpensive as you can, but start with a high quality pair of shoes

I like to eat, sometimes too much so it requires the discipline to limit yourself there, in addition to completing regular workouts. I stretch and run 2 miles every AM before work and try to walk as much as possible during the day. Every evening, my wife and I take about a 40 minute walk (about 2 1/2 to 2 3/4 miles), sometimes more if we get out early enough or on the weekends. We use this as exercise time and "marital business" time. She runs far less than I do, but she walks far more during the days, almost always with her friends. We have also started dancing (ballroom and social) 3 times/week and this is both fun, educational and active, depending on how long we dance and what the dances are. As you age, remember that the cereal packages are right that "some settling of contents may occur" and you need to adjust your calories and exercising accordingly.

Hope that helps. I see obesity and morbid obesity on a daily basis so I have plenty of motivation to stay fit and (relatively) trim.

[alteran]

Internet buddies.

That's what I use and it's done wonders. We weigh in online every week and track progress.

We were inspired by a study done recently that shows that peers are a pretty good predictor of weight. Not only that, but skinny folks that join a peer group that is largely overweight tend to gain weight, and vice versa.

[jimbonelson]

good luck with anything you decide and i hope it makes you happy:)

[tecumseh]

If you are Duke graduate I would guess you are pretty goal oriented person. What has worked for me is to have a goal. For example sign up for a 10K in 6 months, even better sign up with some people at work. Join a tennis league, basketball league, soccer league, Masters swimming etc something if you show up out of shape it is really embarrassing. Or plan a bike trip or hiking trip with friends to say Vermont, Iowa, the Sierras whatever something that is somewhat challenging but does not have to be a killer by any means. Once when I was a resident in ophthalmology I just swam in the university intramural swim meet that goal did it for 5 months of training for me. I did RAGBRAI a ride across Iowa last year that worked pretty well, funny you should mention it I am just searching for goals for next year.

This has always worked pretty well for me and for me the nebulous "get in shape" I always struggle with. Best of Luck

[CathyCA]

Class reunions are the big motivators for me. Just this week I got my letter from the alumni office announcing the dates for my 25th reunion this spring. I've got a lot of work to do. :eek:

Five years ago, I hired a trainer. Knowing that I was paying someone to meet me at the gym was motivation enough to get me there 5 days a week. It was money well spent. She put me on a routine that included aerobics, weight lifting (machines and free weights), yoga, pilates and my favorite: circuit training.

This year I'm going to be working with a training buddy to get ready for my upcoming reunion. We begin in August to prepare for the April reunion. It's a 9 month process, sort of like a pregnancy.

Don't expect instant results. It takes a lot of time and a lot of work, especially as your metabolism slows because you're getting older.

Don't starve yourself to get thin. An easy way to cut calories is to cut out alcohol and soft drinks from your diet. Those calories have no nutritional value. Make sure you eat breakfast. It is the most important meal of the day.

Good luck and keep us informed of your progress!

[rthomas]

Get into something you can do by yourself or with someone else. Like golf. And walk the course. Don't ride.

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

Exercising in water can multiple the results for the time and effort spent. Walking twenty minutes in water is equal to about 2 hours of walking on land. The water helps prevent joint and muscle stress that occurs under other conditions. (I know about this; I graduated just a few years ahead of you!) Signing up for a class helps you to commit to a schedule and maybe meet some new exercise buddies! With a little research you may find moderate prices for such classes. The web site of the Arthritis Foundation's web site is good resource for exercise programs to fit a variety of needs. Here's a link: http://www.arthritis.org/programs.php

[DevilAlumna]

I live in downtown LA, and my apartment building has a workout room. I was thinking that I could walk after work (at the track) or on the treadmill, use the eliptical (sp?) machine a little, and ride the recumbent (sp again?) bike. Maybe start w/ 30 min for 3 days a week? I need to start with something that won't take a lot of time, and that won't frustrate me into quitting after the first week.

My problem is that whenever I start something like this, I have a problem staying committed long term. I'm looking for suggestions on ways to stay interested (I know it takes a while to see results) and how to keep with the program, so to speak. My work schedule is less than optimal in terms of outside free time, so it's very easy for me to make excuses not to work out (and in turn, do something else). Plus, I'm the queen of excuses. :rolleyes:


A couple thoughts -- 1) if you don't like going to your apartment gym, that'll be a convenient excuse to not go; so wherever you decide to work out, try and make the location someplace you like to be. Is there a park nearby that you can walk through? Is there another gym that has some pampering additional features? (I like my gym in part b/c it has an awesome ladies' locker room.)

2) I'm not sure the mindset of viewing it as something you can "give up" on is going to help. You need to begin to view exercise and healthier living a part of your routine, not something additional to it.

That said, things that I've found to help in maintaining the routine include packing my gym bag the night before, so it's ready to go on my way out the door; taking a class with a fun instructor; on days when I don't otherwise have time, trying to take the last 15 minutes of my lunch time to get a stroll in, take the stairs more often, etc.; and invite others to join me on weekend walks.

Lastly, if I feel like a sloth and miss some exercise opportunities, it's not the end of the world. Beating oneself up isn't conducive to getting excited about getting fit. Frankly, I'm against goals beyond some loosely defined principles (for myself, if it works for others, power to ya) because I feel better about just getting *some* exercise, as opposed to the mindset that I have to get some specific amount of exercise in a very defined time period.

[Shammrog]

Well, I have been on a workout kick for just over a year now, and I am about your age. So I think I can help!

Where are you know and what are your goals? Also, how much do you know about fitness?

[dkbaseball]

Shamm, you're assuming she was born in '71, and Devil in the Blue Dress is assuming she graduated from Duke that year. The difference is somewhat significant in terms of taking on an exercise program. You don't want to be pounding on the joints continuously after about 40 or so, IMO.

[DukeDevil]

Post a flyer in your apartment gym asking for someone who wants a workout partner. Give days and times when you are able to work out. That works for me when I go to a new gym and need a new workout partner.

[The Gordog]

Ok, I've looked in the mirror a few times lately, and seen some recent pictures of myself :eek: , and let's just say I'm not a happy camper. :mad: (I won't go into details so as to not depress myself, and let's face it, no one's interested.) So, I've decided I need to start exercising & working out.

I live in downtown LA, and my apartment building has a workout room. I was thinking that I could walk after work (at the track) or on the treadmill, use the eliptical (sp?) machine a little, and ride the recumbent (sp again?) bike. Maybe start w/ 30 min for 3 days a week? I need to start with something that won't take a lot of time, and that won't frustrate me into quitting after the first week.

My problem is that whenever I start something like this, I have a problem staying committed long term. I'm looking for suggestions on ways to stay interested (I know it takes a while to see results) and how to keep with the program, so to speak. My work schedule is less than optimal in terms of outside free time, so it's very easy for me to make excuses not to work out (and in turn, do something else). Plus, I'm the queen of excuses. :rolleyes:

So, all you knowledgeable folks on the board, any suggestions? Tips or tricks? Ways to keep me from bailing? I won't even consider spending money (other than maybe some workout clothes) on a gym or a bike or anything of the sort unless I know it won't be wasted. Maybe we could start a DBR support group to help each other out. Any help is appreciated!

Thanks,
Sue71

I think it's worth noting that doing anything 3 days a week does not easily turn into a habit. That's why you don't stick to it long term. In the end, nobody can self-motivate forever, willpower just runs out. Successful exercisers develop a habit and for that to work you need to do it every day that you work (5 days/week at least.) 6 days/week is even better, 7 days/week is best. I would suggest starting with 10 minutes of brisk walking every day. Gradually increase it to 30. The idea is that this is your permanent lifestyle rather than a quick fix. Don't worry about intesity or any kind of goals other than growing your time commitment for at least a month. Developing the habit is job #1. Then and only then should you focus on the details of what you do during that time.

(IMHO)

[Shammrog]

Shamm, you're assuming she was born in '71, and Devil in the Blue Dress is assuming she graduated from Duke that year. The difference is somewhat significant in terms of taking on an exercise program. You don't want to be pounding on the joints continuously after about 40 or so, IMO.


Aha! But I, being thorough, checked her profile - born in 1971! :D

[Shammrog]

I think it's worth noting that doing anything 3 days a week does not easily turn into a habit. That's why you don't stick to it long term. In the end, nobody can self-motivate forever, willpower just runs out. Successful exercisers develop a habit and for that to work you need to do it every day that you work (5 days/week at least.) 6 days/week is even better, 7 days/week is best. I would suggest starting with 10 minutes of brisk walking every day. Gradually increase it to 30. The idea is that this is your permanent lifestyle rather than a quick fix. Don't worry about intesity or any kind of goals other than growing your time commitment for at least a month. Developing the habit is job #1. Then and only then should you focus on the details of what you do during that time.

(IMHO)


Gordog - you are ABSOLUTELY right. The key part is making it a habit, and to do so you have to be consistent as you point out.

More later when I have time... But an excellent insight, which I myself really only realized in the last year or so.

[gus]

are you trying to lose weight, or is the goal firming up?

if the former, it's simply a matter of consuming fewer calories than you burn. Calorie-Count (http://www.calorie-count.com/) is good, free online tool for tracking consumption. The key is to understand how many calories your body is actually burning. Calculate your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) (here's one link: http://www.bmi-calculator.net/bmr-calculator/), and ensure you have a deficit everyday.

Good luck!

[blublood]

One thing that has been helpful for me over the years is that exercise is also a great way to work out stress. I sleep much better when I'm tired and I am a much less angry person because whereas I would normally want to bash the offender over the head repeatedly with a hammer, I can just run a mile or so.

Sometimes that is a better motivator than "I look terrible" or "I hate my _____" - you can think to yourself (and this is absolutely true) how every stride or every mile ridden is squeezing out frustration, or sweating off all the garbage you've had to endure that day. It is taking care of yourself both physically and emotionally.

Also, and I say this as a non-runner who has forced herself to run for the last 5 years, steer well clear of the professionals. The last thing you need when you're killing yourself trying to finish your tiny workout is 2 guys breezing by like greyhounds complaining because they "just get any burn" anymore from those 5K's! They will de-motivate you and they suck anyway - find a place where you are comfortable doing what you can do and be proud of your achievements.

Good luck and know that you can do it!

[Schwarz]

I have a generic "fitness program" where I exercise 10 times per month. I need to stay away from the X times per week programs which lacks flexibility. I find that my energy levels vary, so I don't like to be locked into something like doing activity Y every Tuesday. Also, I can miss a whole week because of vacation, work, illness, etc and still get my 10 days in.

I own a recumbent stationary bike, so worst case I do that for 30 minutes 10 times per month. After months of doing only that, it got really boring, so I have started kayaking and playing tennis to add more entertainment and variety. These fun exercises require good weather, so I am glad to have the fall back of the bike. The key thing that keeps me honest on the program is that I have a 1 page 2008 calendar on my desk at work where I mark the days that I do an activity. This calendar guilts me into keeping on pace to hit 10 workouts every month. I have been able to do this program every month this year, and while it won't make me look like a professional athlete, it does make me look and feel better.

[bjornolf]

Get Wii FIT!! ;)

But seriously, if you drink sodas, even diet sodas, cutting out the sodas and drinking enough water can make a HUGE difference. A lot of the chemicals in diet sodas, even 0 calorie ones, hurt your metabolism in the long run.

As for me, I'm a BIG dude. Even when I played football at Duke, I was 6'0" and weighed 255. I played linebacker, so it was mostly muscle, not a LOT of fat (I had a 56" chest, 66" shoulders, 20" arms and a 35" waist). When I got married, I weighed 325, and I was disgusted with myself, though I do carry it pretty well, according to my wife. I got on a plan (cut soda out, ate more white meat and fish, cut the carbs and desserts) and dropped to 270ish. Got back into the 40" pants (I got disgusted when the 48s got tight). But then I lost momentum when I hit a plateau and the kids came and I started hovering in the 285-290 range. When our third came in April and I realized I was pushing 300 again and the 44s were getting tight, I decided it was time to nip it in the bud. I've cut out my sodas again and added more water, eaten a little healthier (more veggies and fruits, fewer fries) , and I walk 35 minutes (2 miles), 4 days a week. In 6 weeks, I've lost 14 lbs (down to 285), and I'm back in my 42s. I'm starting some resistance work (I'm going to 2x resistance, 3x walking a week). I'm definitely feeling better both physically and mentally. Anyway, the way I feel once I get going is what motivates me. My children also motivate me, as I want to be around for their graduations/weddings.

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

Shamm, you're assuming she was born in '71, and Devil in the Blue Dress is assuming she graduated from Duke that year. The difference is somewhat significant in terms of taking on an exercise program. You don't want to be pounding on the joints continuously after about 40 or so, IMO.

Exercising in water is under rated by those who haven't tried it; types of programs and levels of difficulty are endless. The medium itself is very forgiving and allows one to exercise in ways not possible on land. Protecting joints while exercising is a good idea at any age. The exercise programs publicized the Arthritis Foundation are useful for planning your own exercise program whether you have developed arthritis or not. (If you haven't met Arthur yet, chances are you will!!!)

As for any assumption about age, I guess humor conveyed by tone of voice is difficult to detect online!

[sue71]

Hey everyone, thanks for all the insights! I'll post more later when I can sift through everything (work demands my attention, go figure). I WILL have questions!!! :)

For those of you who PM'd me about internet workout buddies, I will also get back to you shortly.

Thanks again!

[devildeac]

I think it's worth noting that doing anything 3 days a week does not easily turn into a habit. That's why you don't stick to it long term. In the end, nobody can self-motivate forever, willpower just runs out. Successful exercisers develop a habit and for that to work you need to do it every day that you work (5 days/week at least.) 6 days/week is even better, 7 days/week is best. I would suggest starting with 10 minutes of brisk walking every day. Gradually increase it to 30. The idea is that this is your permanent lifestyle rather than a quick fix. Don't worry about intesity or any kind of goals other than growing your time commitment for at least a month. Developing the habit is job #1. Then and only then should you focus on the details of what you do during that time.

(IMHO)

These are excellent points.

[sue71]

Ok here goes, in no particular order:

~ Yes, I was born in 1971. Though it was amusing to think that graduating in '71 would make me my dad's age and older than my mom!

~ I am not a runner. Repeat, not a runner. I believe in running only when being chased by... wait, that's my recurring nightmare. I used to walk about 2 miles, and would run every 3rd or 4th block just to do it. I hated it.

~ Growing up, I used to dance. Not just once a week, but 2-4+ hours a day, about 6 days a week. Then I taught dance, and even majored in it as an undergrad (oh geez, how long ago was that!). I've never been thin but things were better then. I've been looking for an adult dance class near me but nothing so far.

~ That being said, yes, I'm older and now I have a lovely, sedentary desk (most of the time) job. And, being older, I have those problems that we all get as we get older- back/neck problems (physical therapist likes walking/recumbent bike for me, but be careful with yoga/pilates, plus I don't get much out of those), etc.

~ Stamina is an issue. Big surprise.

~ Trying to walk more in my daily life (ie around work, etc). Maybe I'll get a pedometer.

~ Trying to be more careful about what I eat.

~ Would love to buy a bike and ride, but again, that downtown LA thing (not conducive to riding, really). Picking up and driving somewhere with the bike isn't my cup of tea at the moment. If I ever move, I'm buying a bike!

~ Would also love to hire a trainer, but don't want to lay out the cash right now if I'm not in 100% (trying to get to that point but not there yet, hence the original post). I've signed up/paid for various classes before & then bailed. I like my money too much to throw it away like that. So, sadly, not the best motivator for me.

~ The fact that I have a workout room in my building is a HUGE plus, as is the track at work. I just need to kick myself into gear to use either/both.

~ Played Wii for the first time ever this weekend (bowling & tennis). Could REALLY get into that. Thinking seriously about it (maybe because it's fun, I see that differently somehow... more game, less work?). However, not an inexpensive option... :(

~ Internet workout buddies... I'm in. Want to start a group?

Thanks again to everyone who chimed in. Please, keep the suggestions coming- I really appreciate the support!

Sue71 (yes, that makes me 36 as some of you saw on my profile :p )

[DevilAlumna]

More on pilates:

I too, used to dance, and pilates works a lot of those core muscles that I hadn't otherwise worked for years. It doesn't require a lot of stamina to get started (tho it helps you build it, by making your muscles stronger), and after 6 weeks of classes 2x/week, my pants are already looser! A beginning mat class shouldn't be too cost-prohibitive, and no additional equipment required. Maybe a local gym offers drop-in classes, or you could find a free-lance instructor for some basic mat work.

I do also have a friend who lost 20 lbs playing Wii Tennis regularly. : )

[sue71]

More on pilates:

I too, used to dance, and pilates works a lot of those core muscles that I hadn't otherwise worked for years. It doesn't require a lot of stamina to get started (tho it helps you build it, by making your muscles stronger), and after 6 weeks of classes 2x/week, my pants are already looser! A beginning mat class shouldn't be too cost-prohibitive, and no additional equipment required. Maybe a local gym offers drop-in classes, or you could find a free-lance instructor for some basic mat work.

I do also have a friend who lost 20 lbs playing Wii Tennis regularly. : )


I took 2 semesters of Pilates in college. Had to (dance major). Did NOTHING for me. Bleh. Clearly, YMMV.

[DevilAlumna]

I took 2 semesters of Pilates in college. Had to (dance major). Did NOTHING for me. Bleh. Clearly, YMMV.

LOL! Of course you've already tried it - that would make sense, duh. YMMV indeed. :)

[sue71]

LOL! Of course you've already tried it - that would make sense, duh. YMMV indeed. :)

Part of the classes was that we had to take before and after pictures, because it's supposed to transform your body, lengthen, long & lean, help posture, etc etc. We did the mat work and the machine.

Ask me if my before and after pictures showed any change. Go ahead, ask me.

Nope.

After an entire semester of 2-3 days/week, about 2 hrs each, nothing. Zip. Zilch. Nada. And these were real Pilates instructors (read: certified from the Pilates institute, not just exercise instructors doing a class- nothing wrong with that but it seems more watered down to me) who would bust our arses every class.

Then I had to do it AGAIN, for another semester.

And it's not like that's all I was doing. I was dancing all the time.

So when I hear Pilates, I kind of cringe. And I have to pay to do that now? No thanks. ;)

I'm open to other ideas though. :) Thanks for the thought!

[bjornolf]

So when I hear Pilates, I kind of cringe. And I have to pay to do that now? No thanks. ;)

Hey, I got news for ya. If you had to take that for credit in college, those were probably the most expensive pilates classes you could ever take! ;)

[sue71]

Hey, I got news for ya. If you had to take that for credit in college, those were probably the most expensive pilates classes you could ever take! ;)

And ballet, and jazz, and ballroom, and tap (though I did get to dance with Gregory Hines, so that kind of made up for it).

[ghost]

Sue71,

As i mentioned in my PM, i would love to set up internet workout buddy with you. If you have gmail, I can set up a Google document where we can track our progress. One big question I have is what are your goals? Do you want to slim down particular areas? Tone others? Lose weight? Feel like you have more energy? Increase flexibility?

Now that I have exited graduate life and will be starting a real job, I definitely need motivators. And for some reason, my husband doesn't work. I resist his attempts to motivate me. I think I need someone that I am not emotionally attached to and who I do not see everyday.

We can do this!
Ghost

[TillyGalore]

Sue71,

As i mentioned in my PM, i would love to set up internet workout buddy with you. If you have gmail, I can set up a Google document where we can track our progress. One big question I have is what are your goals? Do you want to slim down particular areas? Tone others? Lose weight? Feel like you have more energy? Increase flexibility?

Ghost

Can I play too?

[sue71]

Sue71,

As i mentioned in my PM, i would love to set up internet workout buddy with you. If you have gmail, I can set up a Google document where we can track our progress. One big question I have is what are your goals? Do you want to slim down particular areas? Tone others? Lose weight? Feel like you have more energy? Increase flexibility?

We can do this!


Goals... forgot all about that. ;) No particular order:

1. To not feel like a sloth
2. To have more energy
3. To slim down
4. To increase stamina
5. To lose weight
6. To better fit in my clothes, or even go down a few sizes
7. Other goals yet tbd. :o

FWIW, I'm somewhat resigned to my overall "shape" as it's definitely genetic and not going to change. A smaller version would be lovely, though. :)

Tilly, yes of course you can join us! Hit me up on PM and I'll compile everyone's email.

[Clipsfan]

Are you new to LA? From what you're saying, it doesn't sound like you know people to work out with. I find that I get most of my exercise here through the sort of suggestions above (playing sports with friends/in leagues). The beach is a great place to work out, if you're not too far away, and that can give you a day or two of good exercise each week.

I'm the sort who used to hit the gym 6 days a week to lift, but it's VERY hard to get the motivation to do that these days, so sports are a great substitute.

[hamster]

Goals... forgot all about that. ;) No particular order:

1. To not feel like a sloth
2. To have more energy
3. To slim down
4. To increase stamina
5. To lose weight
6. To better fit in my clothes, or even go down a few sizes
7. Other goals yet tbd. :o

FWIW, I'm somewhat resigned to my overall "shape" as it's definitely genetic and not going to change. A smaller version would be lovely, though. :)

Tilly, yes of course you can join us! Hit me up on PM and I'll compile everyone's email.

Hear hear! And I'll add - to be more cheerful. I can be a bear when I don't workout.

Um, and I'll also add that I'm about to cross a rather intimidating threshold.

[BlueDevilBaby]

So much that I took my dogs on a 20 minute walk last night, which is pretty good for my tiny chihuahuas, and then walked on the treadmill for 25 more. It's a small start but a start nonetheless. I would love to join the workout group since I have pretty much the same goals.

[bjornolf]

I'd like to join too!

[ghost]

So much that I took my dogs on a 20 minute walk last night, which is pretty good for my tiny chihuahuas, and then walked on the treadmill for 25 more. It's a small start but a start nonetheless. I would love to join the workout group since I have pretty much the same goals.

Good for you BDB! I haven't made it over the motivation hump yet, but am definitely getting close!

[TillyGalore]

This weekend, I'll be buying a new pair of walking shoes, and next week I'm going to start working out at the gym and outside via walking and elliptical.

Why not now, I've got plans every night this week and over the weekend.

Come Monday, it'll be alright, come Monday I'll be holding you tight...oops straying into Jimmy Buffett.

Monday, a new Tilly will begin to emerge. :D

[BCGroup]

Sue71,

As i mentioned in my PM, i would love to set up internet workout buddy with you. If you have gmail, I can set up a Google document where we can track our progress. One big question I have is what are your goals? Do you want to slim down particular areas? Tone others? Lose weight? Feel like you have more energy? Increase flexibility?

Now that I have exited graduate life and will be starting a real job, I definitely need motivators. And for some reason, my husband doesn't work. I resist his attempts to motivate me. I think I need someone that I am not emotionally attached to and who I do not see everyday.

We can do this!
Ghost

I'm in too if there's space!