Not sure quite how it happened, but I managed to flip the switch this week in regards to REAL exercise... What do I mean by "real" exercise? Well, exercise that challenges and tires me. I was getting pretty accustomed to stupid little workouts like strolling on my treadmill for 30 minutes in the basement, etc. While that's definitely better than nothing, it certainly wasn't challenging or very rewarding.The other day, I upgraded my gym membership. Although it might seem counter-intuitive to upgrade a membership that I was barely using, I did it as motivation to use the gym a big more. Also, for me "convenience is King," and there was a gym about 9 minutes from my office (on the route home) that I couldn't use unless I upgraded. So, I parted with an extra $20 a month, but since then have had two AWESOME workouts -- I mean, the type where I walk away from my cardio drenched in sweat, and continue to press on through some stretch training.
But one thing I'm definitely NOT doing is OVER-doing -- I've limited both workouts to 60 minute, burning just over 400 calories each time. I've gone straight from work, which means I miss traffic on the way home -- all in all, it's a very efficient plan. I'd been staying at work until 6 PM most days just to avoid traffic... with this new plan, I'm working out instead of fighting traffic, but still getting home at a really reasonable hour.
Yesterday I picked up dinner from the grocery store afterwards, and tonight I bought a salad at the gym... tomorrow's test will be to hit the gym, but not BUY dinner -- rather, I'm going to set the crockpot so that dinner will be waiting for me at home. I haven't picked a recipe yet, but since I have all of the ingredients on hand, it might be BBQ Chicken Casserole Redux (this time with a sweeter BBQ sauce, and setting the timer slightly differently).
It always amazes me how easy this is to do when... well, when its easy. When I don't have to fight traffic, fight for parking, fight for a machine. When it is turnkey -- or, like flipping a light switch, the light goes on and the cylinders fire pretty quickly and easily.
Let's hope I can keep this momentum going!
Off and running,
~Jessica
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3 comments:
Making work outs a part of a larger routine is certainly key. Best of luck as you get back on track. Cheering for you from here!
Of course you'll keep it going! Spring is in the air (under the snow somewhere) and I'm hoping to get on the ball again too.
I joined a gym by my work this last fall & made it part of my routine that I go to the gym after work instead of sitting in traffic. I still have times I fall off the wagon, but overall feel so much better! And most days I'd rather workout than sit in traffic so it works out pretty well! When my choices are have an hour stressful commute, or workout & then have a 35 minute easy commute it's an easier choice:)
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