I walk. People dont walk enough these days. I walk to school thats an hour I walk to work thats a half an hour. If Im on time restraint I will drive but otherwise I walk. and I lift a little weights but I despise doing do it. Just dont wanna look outta shape.
P90X. Awesome program. But I really am not an exerciser. I try and try but it's never 'love' or 'I can't wait to work out!' But I do like the program, even the eating plan, and it's done great things for my health.
I didn't for 10 years (college and then the years after) and just recently started again. I feel like a new person - full of energy and happy and well-rested. It's awesome. I run three times a week, do strength with a trainer once a week, and do p90x twice a week. I love it.
I take my dog on a couple of long walks a day. Does that count? Aside from that no. You know the episode of Ab Fab where Eddy tries to get into shape and can't even do a sit up? She can just move her eyes? That's me :)
Me, too!! I just ran my second half last weekend. I plan to run a full before the end of this year. A girlfriend of mine just ran the Goofy Challenge (a half on Saturday and a full on Sunday), which is awesome - but I'm not trying to kill myself! After I put a check next to 24.1, I don't have anything else to prove! :)
I need to start up again. Just had my baby boy 4 weeks ago today and havent started back exercising again. I like to do Zumba and I used to walk around the building at my job during my breaks.
Yes I exercise. I do MMA and have a brown belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. I'm also going to start Tracy Anderson Metamorphosis to mix things up. Has anyone tried it?
I do, but I've been battling injuries that put me back into physical therapy so I'm not able to do as much as I used to. I used to snowboard, play softball, etc. Sucks.
Doing Couch to 5K again. This time I will finish it and start Couch to 10K. I'm working my way up to half marathons (don't laugh). I try to run three times a week, and I'm going to start using the Nike Training Club app for strength training.
Keep it up Vicki! I ran my first half marathon last year and just got back from running the Disney World half...I've never considered myself a runner nor do I now, but it's such an accomplishment! If I can do it, anyone can :)
Yup, running after a 3 yr old and 4 yr old. Pilates twice a week and Every once in a while i will pick up my dumbbells and play with them. I am trying to get into airboxing.
I just started her Body Revolution program. I'm on week 2 and really liking it. I did Insanity before, but was missing weight resistance training, so I'm trying something new. And it's nice I can do it at home and avoid the mass of New Year's resolution clients that crown the machines in January.
We have a gym in our building that I really need to start using. I quit exercising while pregnant, then about 4 months post partum something happened to my back and I had to stop going to the yoga I had started. Now that it's finally (mostly) healed I'm going to start again because I'm so damn tired all the time and I know exercise will help.
Yes. I've done pilates for years. I can't jog bc my knees were wrecked years ago in an accident. I know it sounds lame, but for cardio I do gentle skipping in the basement on a few blankets. I also have a back injury so I have to watch my weight. I feel it right away. I always loved sports in school. I would have been happy to have had gym for all classes .
I bicycle to work (almost 4 miles each way) as often as I can - three days so far this week. And while I'm at work I sit on an exercise ball instead of an office chair so I am always moving. A few times a day I will lay back on the ball to stretch and do a set of crunches while I am there. At home I toss a 6 lb medicine ball (one of the small ones, about the size of a cantaloupe) from one hand to the other while watching TV. And we have a treadmill at home, but I hate it so it is exercise of last resort.
Lucas, I go to the gym, have a personal trainer, do line dancing, clean the house, am up & down a flight of stairs at work, and I too am fat, but fit and healthy, has to count right?
@feraltart - being fit and healthy totally counts. Even though I am carrying a bunch of extra weight all my bloodwork comes back good at the Dr. No high cholesterol, no funky blood sugar, no high blood pressure. My chief complaint with the extra weight is that I carry all of it in the midsection. Which means that even though my neck measures a 16, I have to buy dress shirts with a neck size of 19 to get enough room to cover the gut. It's irritating. But my girlfriend doesn't seem to mind too much so I guess it's all good for now ;)
Kind of. I do yoga a couple times a week but that's mostly for stress relief. I walk a lot and my second job requires lots of heavy lifting and generally working my ass off, but I get paid! Its better than exercise.
I love P90x! I can't do ALL of the exercises like the pull up bar, but it's okay to skip some of them and still get in great shape. The muscle confusion thing is what makes it work (in my opinion). So funny, I am so uncoordinated that I can't do the Kenpo (it's like boxing) so I just do other cardio stuff!
I go up and down 3 flights of stairs about 15 times a day. The elevator in our office building is soooo freaking slow that it's faster to take the stairs. I refer to it as the company fitness plan.
Quit my soul-sucking law job to train clients (Zumba, Body Pump, RIPPED, Pilates, Kicboxing) and I'm a Beachbody coach (Happy to see the p90xers here! Bring it guys!)
Love my life. I make less money than I did as an attorney but I get up every day happy to do what I do. A bad day teaching group ex is still better than a good day as a lawyer! ;-)
@FitwithLizzie & greenmountaingal - I so admire both of you for making such huge and scary life changes! As I sit in a meeting in my soul sucking, high paying job, just hoping the end of the day will come and I can leave, I wish I had your courage and willingness to make a similar life change for myself.
I am about go run right now.. No matter how many times a week I run I always feel the same way before I walk out the door " ughhhhhhh "
I do Winsor Pilates at least twice a week ( mari Winsor is evil btw ) and don't laugh at me but I do 8 minute abs five days a week. My brother is a pro mma fighter and an all American college wrestler and he showed me the way of the 8 minute work outs.. Apparently they are very popular for training. At least with grapplers. I have to laugh every time I write:say it though because it reminds me of that scene in Something About Mary " Seven. Minute. Abs. We guarantee just as good of work out as the eight minute folk. If you're not satisfied with our product we will give you the last minute for free! "
Sure do, first of all I live in New York and walk everywhere ...and then I hit the gym 3 times a week for cardio...don't use the weight machines... I find I just feel better...
@Mizz and @mae I ran my first half marathon last year too. I also never thought I could run. It sure is addictive! I'm running my 5th 10K next weekend, and I do 5K's a lot too. On a normal week I run 4 times a week with the odd elliptical and strength training 1-2 days week. @Vicki You can do it!
For those who say they prefer mental stimulation, you are missing out- because exercise IS mental stimulation! You mind is sharper, and the endorphin rush is awesome.
Yoga and pilates on and off for years. A lot of walking. Walking the dog. Started running a few months ago and I'm loving it. I try to go a few times a week and have my first 10k coming up in a couple months!
Good for all you healthies in Entyland :). I've had 9 knee surgeries (include a total knee replacement= titanium knee at age 32) so that has limited all activity for me. Swimming is good but I don't willingly put on a bathing suit so hard to swim with all your clothes on. Plus being 5 months pregnant I'm finding every excuse not to be active. Admire everyone else though-- keep up the good work :)
I'm on week 4 of TurboFire, and I am starting to see some pretty awesome results (I have an AB, you guys!!!). Also, because of rampant parking fees in my city (only NYC is more expensive), I park in a neighbourhood near my work, and do the 20-25 walk to and from the office every day.
I've been working with a trainer 2x a week and doing cardio on off days. I've been doing 3 miles on the treadmill a couple times a week. We do a 5K each month. There's a "Thin Mint Sprint" coming up and one of the goodies in our bag is a box of Girl Scout Cookies. Ha!
I do as little as possible at the moment that involves using my feet (like standing, walking,) but I'm trying to find away to arrange my schedule (read: the kids' schedules) so that I can get back in a swim class* or to the pool at the Y.
*Love taking swim classes at the local JC. They give grades and take attendance, so you have to show up (unlike a gym,) because who wouldn't feel stupid flunking PE as an adult? Plus, most of the teachers are going to push you a lot harder than if you just did laps at the Y.
Swimming is awesome for that. I lost 60 pounds mostly from swimming. There's no impact and the water adds all this wonderful resistance. Or Aqua-Aerobics, reduced impact/increased resistance.
@Gayeld - do your feet roll inward? A couple years ago I was diagnosed w/chronic PF. Long story short, my current PTist believes I have alignment problems due to breaking my knee, and she has me working on glute strengthening exercises using a theraband. The goal is to strengthen the muscles to help pull things back outward.
I'm an extreme over-pronator (flat, flat, flat feet) and I have crooked hips.
I have a whole list of exercises for strengthening and stretching the muscles, but like everything else they fall by the wayside when your busy trying to keep up with the kids and work. (Plus, my three-year old thinks that every marble in the house belongs to her, so I usually end up hobbling down the hall shout at her to bring them back!)
Gayeld, I have flat feet & have orthotics. I wear them in my gym shoes but don't want to have to wear them everyday. I bought these sandals from Merrell & they are designed for women do the foot doesn't roll. They are so comfy, highly recommended.
Been dancing since I was 3. I still teach classes two nights a week and every Saturday.
@ Gayeld - the trick is once you get the plantar fascitis under control you have to be fanatical about not doing whatever inflamed it to begin with. I can never walk barefoot or in crappy flip flops. Roll your feet on frozen water bottles twice a day.
Ugh, it's the no barefeet part that really kills me. It used to literally be the first thing I did when I got home and even now I'll look down and realize I have no shoes on and don't remember taking them off. I've tried the Dr. Weil shoes and as far as I can tell, they made it worse (I know they made my hip ache.)
LOL! I have frozen water bottles and SpongeBob owie packs in the freezer (I stick the owie packs in my socks and curse a lot.)
@Gayeld I'm no podiatrist, but have you tried Haflingers? I don't have PF, but I have high arches (my ex-bf used to mock my "Barbie feet." Like that's a bad thing?). When I moved into my current place with hardwood floors after growing up with carpet, I found that it hurt my feet to walk on then. I some cute Haflinger slippers from Amazon and my feet haven't hurt since! Also gave a couple pairs to friends this Christmas, and they are now just as obsessed! Amazon had a ton of different styles for every personality :)
I do exercise! I didn't for quite a few years because of serious health problems, but back in July, i joined the gym and have been sticking with it.
The thing is, I loathe and detest exercise, but I force myself to do it. Hard cardio plus strength training. I.hate.it. I workout a minimum of five hours a week. Blech.
Did you have a hard time starting p90? I watch the commercials and they intimidate me. I'm not out of shape by any means but wow they are really moving fast!
@mikey - I have them, but they don't help. Basically, I healed wrong from my knee break. My bones are rotated inward because my ER-assigned doctor was awful. So from the hip on down, everything is just off, so it needs to be pulled back outward.
The frozen water bottle thing is awesome. I've found that if you get the long skinny Smart Water (not the absolute biggest one), it's the perfect diameter for your arches and you can do both at once.
I exercise (an hour of power walking at 10% incline on the treadmill) 5 days a week most weeks. For me, it's not only critical to losing weight (I'm always 5 - 10 pounds overweight - sigh), but also to feel good in general, to reduce anxiety/stress and to have more energy. Up until a few months ago, I was also doing strength training 2 - 3 times a week, but I injured my neck pretty badly. Now, since I've only been doing cardio, I keep injuring my lower back and I have not been getting in the number of workouts that I want. I hate the way I feel without exercise :(. I can't wait to get back to normal!
I try to every day, although my exercise today was moving chairs downstairs for my sisters team dinner. My excuse is that I am too sore from yoga yesterday.
I go with my mom to crossfit sometimes, but usually I just run/power walk around our neighborhood lakes then hit up the local Y for some Zumba, which I am absolutely horrible at.
Swimming is awesome, I swam year round on a competition team for 10 years but hate anything other then dolphin diving in my backyard pool now.
I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy. I had it once and the first thing in the morning I felt like chopping my foot off at the ankle. I got it from doing a so-called low-impact exercise video.
Three walks with the dog every day (weather permitting) plus yoga at home, plus the treadmill and weights at the gym at least a couple of times a week.
I bike 2 miles to/from work everyday and do CrossFit 3-4 times a week. Try to fit in yoga 1 day a week but sometimes I get too busy. I also go on a 6-10 mile run at least every two weeks. Love it!
I've been exercising for as long as I can remember. I walk at least four miles a day (can't run because of bad knees). I just started working out with kettlebells and they are awesome; I highly recommend them to everyone. I also do yoga, Bar Method, The Firm, and many more DVDs.
YesI loveit it keeps me sane, and along the way I have met some awesome people.
I ran my first marathon last year - it was a long way... so this year i'm running my first ultra marathon at 50k... just for the experience of finishing !
My preference is half marathons which I will keep doing for as long as I can.
I have a PT session twice a week, playtime at Zumba once a week and try to run twice a week. I put on about 15kg after high school so I'm trying to get back to a size 10. Ive lost half of it in 3 months! And I'm playin netball again this year, yayyyyy!
High intensity interval training. Really quick to do, raises your aerobic capacity, reduces fatty deposits on internal organs so is helpful for anyone with diabetes or suchlike. I have spinal damage from a car crash and can't do certain exercises so this suits me perfectly.
Yep, and I love it! I used to clock in the typical hour cardio with some weights here and there at the gym, bored out of my mind the entire time for YEARS. Then I started going to this high intensity interval training studio (half treadmill, half weights), and I all of a sudden started LOVING working out. I look forward to going every single time. It is such a blast, music blaring, and every single class is different. Different speeds and inclines on the treadmill, different floor exercises and weight moves. So fun! I honestly think people should only do exercise that they love. Otherwise it just turns into a chore. :)
I went through the Insanity program last year and lost 35lbs in 2 months. It was brutal but I felt great every day when I was finished. I was in the best shape of my life but a little too skinny. Still go at it 2-4 days per week, but I have gained about 15lbs back thanks to my dedication to 12oz curls.
WOW! You guys are a fit bunch! I wish I joined the party a little earlier so I could ask for some advice and motivational tips. I've never exercised as I've always been petite (and really lazy) but I'm turning 27 this year, refuse to give up the weekly boozing (beer - worst choice, I know), and need to start toning up before I turn into a whale :(
Started running 4 days ago, my muscles are super sore. Both with long limbs and was the skinny kid all my life, then I hit my mid 30s and noticed I had piled on. So we will see how long my new health kick lasts.
@Sashajames2 - stick with it. It will get better. And remember not to overdo it when you are just starting out. I recommend using a Couch to 5k app. I did that a couple of years ago and had good results with it.
I have been lifting weights on and off for about 10 years. Got the running bug at the 1st of the year but my knee has been acting up. If anyone has any advice please pass it along. Now it hurts when I take off after my 2 year old. I am envious of all of the marathoners out there. HELP PLEASE!
Della I hurt my knee a few years ago while training. My physical therapist had me strengthen the muscles inside the thighs and hamstrings to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee. Squats and lunges just never let your knee go past your toes keep it at 90 degrees. Start alternating run for 5 minutes walk for 5 and keep building up to run 10 mins walk 5 until you cut the walk out. If it gets worse instead of better see a dr. A staionary bike is also good for getting the blood flowing in the knee with no impact. Hope this helps.
Thanks. I was laid off in November so, I don't really want to spend the $ on a doctor visit. I'm gonna take it easy for a couple of weeks but I can't take a brake from the 2 year old. Wish me luck.
Della start with the stationary bike if you access to one or a reg bike is fine just not uphill, it's really important to get the blood pumping through the knee it helps the cartilage repair itself. My PT started me on the bike for 15 minutes then 15minutes of strength exercises. Go to your local sports store and get a rubber resistance band, they're pretty cheap and start doing squats with the band then try crab walking with the band just above your knees. I'm sure you can look up PT exercises on line. Good luck I know it's daunting at first and you think you'll never get it back but you will, see my earlier post about my broken back, PT saved me. Feel free to ping me here if you have any questions I usually check in daily. PS sorry to hear about your job :(
Yes! Have to. But I love it. FIT and core classes twice a week, running 3 times a week and yoga twice a week. Love to swim and play squash too just don't on my reg rotation. Ran my first half marathon two years ago and my first spartan race last year training for both of those now. I broke my back in '06 they said I'd never run on pavement again. Two rods and 6 years later doing great never limit yourself! You'd be surprised what you can do!
I power walk every where and every day. Im trying so hard to keep my weight down because I used to be obese (174 at only 5"3) but its really difficult. I walk at least 2 miles a day and when the weather is.good I walk.about 6 miles.
In one of my yoga classes we do a keigel exercise men supposedly have them too just in the pelvic area. Every time we do it the class gets the giggles- the women and men!
Curves! It is so much fun, I go an hour instead of the typical 30 mins. It's resistance so it never gets too easy. I lost 60 lbs and had a ball doing it.
Been exercising my entire life, except for the past 3 years. I started up again in August largely to get my anxiety under control. It has been awesome! I lost 15 lbs and I am back to my high school weight (was a dancer). haven't even had to change my diet. I have more energy and feel so much better about myself. I run, lift weights, do yoga, and am about to start swimming again. The only crappy thing is that I lost my boobs again. Oh and sex life - there is something to loving your body and feeling free to have some serious funtime.
Usually I get my exercise from walking around to & from the train stations, etc., but since I was laid off, I'm starting to use my Planet Fitness membership again; I use a whole bunch of machines (I want to say Nautilus, but it's a different company), try to do some stretches, and then a bit of elliptical. (I say a bit because even on Level 1, 5 minutes really kicks my ass; then again, that just shows how much it's something I need, eh?) I've only been a few times so far, but I do think it'll do me good, plus I can go at times other than during the after-work rush hour.
When they were first planning on building the PF nearest me, someone on Live Journal started bitching that PF was really only for "fat middle-aged women." AHEM...I resemble that remark, damn it, and see nothing wrong with being going to a place that doesn't give you grief for not being perfect the minute you walk in the door. (Some people bitch about having to see fat folks, but then rag on them if they're at the gym trying to at least get more aerobically fit; apparently we'll all just supposed to die and dissolve into vapor or something so as not to offend their delicate sensitivities. *rolls eyes*)
@Robin, those kind of comments make me stabby. I remember overhearing someone making fun of someone who was a little heavy running outdoors, "they need to run a little faster" or something like that. I was like "At least they are trying!" Why people have to be such a-holes is beyond me.
I row...the water is my happy place. I also walk a couple of mile every day (to and from the park and ride) and I try to swim at least 5 miles a week. In the summers I paddle-board and sometimes windsurf. Sensing a theme? I probably should have been born a fish...or mermaid! ;)
Thanks to so many of you with the advice about the PF! Going through a little bout right now, and after reading here, I am blaming it on a Sat spent walking in my high top Chucks. I can handle many different things about getting older, but it means I can't wear the shoes I have been wearing for 30 years? Me and Father Time are in for a big fight....
Yes. I do a little bit of everything. Treadmill, stationary bike, Pilates, Bikram yoga, weight lifting and I have a ton of DVD's I rotate through to not get bored. There are definitely things I enjoy more than others but I've never finished a workout and regretted it.
Hell yes! My entire life I have been active.
ReplyDeleteKarate 5-6 days a week now, and stair running, as well as walking my doggie twice a day. I can't NOT exercise, it feels too good.
AND, on Saturday I test for the last Belt before I get my Black Belt. The test will be anywhere from 4-7 hours long of grueling exercise. WOO HOO!
GO GIRL!
DeleteI walk. People dont walk enough these days. I walk to school thats an hour I walk to work thats a half an hour. If Im on time restraint I will drive but otherwise I walk. and I lift a little weights but I despise doing do it. Just dont wanna look outta shape.
ReplyDeleteP90X. Awesome program. But I really am not an exerciser. I try and try but it's never 'love' or 'I can't wait to work out!' But I do like the program, even the eating plan, and it's done great things for my health.
ReplyDeleteI didn't for 10 years (college and then the years after) and just recently started again. I feel like a new person - full of energy and happy and well-rested. It's awesome. I run three times a week, do strength with a trainer once a week, and do p90x twice a week. I love it.
ReplyDeleteI take my dog on a couple of long walks a day. Does that count? Aside from that no. You know the episode of Ab Fab where Eddy tries to get into shape and can't even do a sit up? She can just move her eyes? That's me :)
ReplyDeleteI exercise my right to be a couch potato :)
ReplyDeleteYep. Been exercising for nearly 10 years now, actually ran my first half marathon last year :)
ReplyDeleteCongratulations! I ran my first half marathon last year too. Also just got back from running the Disney World Half Marathon two weeks ago :)
DeleteMe, too!! I just ran my second half last weekend. I plan to run a full before the end of this year. A girlfriend of mine just ran the Goofy Challenge (a half on Saturday and a full on Sunday), which is awesome - but I'm not trying to kill myself! After I put a check next to 24.1, I don't have anything else to prove! :)
DeleteI need to start up again. Just had my baby boy 4 weeks ago today and havent started back exercising again. I like to do Zumba and I used to walk around the building at my job during my breaks.
ReplyDelete@parissucksliterally Congratulations! That's awesome!
ReplyDeleteYes I exercise. I do MMA and have a brown belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. I'm also going to start Tracy Anderson Metamorphosis to mix things up. Has anyone tried it?
I was bored senseless by Metamorphosis (I had the hipcentric version).
DeleteI do, but I've been battling injuries that put me back into physical therapy so I'm not able to do as much as I used to. I used to snowboard, play softball, etc. Sucks.
ReplyDeleteNot nearly enough. I do walk to and from public transit but I acknowledge I need more.
ReplyDeleteYep! Yoga & pilates. I figure chasing after a 2 year old all day every day counts as cardio, too.
ReplyDeleteThanks greenmountaingal! It is my 11th Belt! I love Martial Arts, best stuff ever, as I am sure you know!!!
ReplyDeleteHell yes! Plus, it's nice to know you could actually kick someone's ass if you needed to :)
DeleteOf course!
ReplyDeleteLost 40 pounds with ZUMBA!
ReplyDeleteGood for you!
DeleteDoing Couch to 5K again. This time I will finish it and start Couch to 10K. I'm working my way up to half marathons (don't laugh). I try to run three times a week, and I'm going to start using the Nike Training Club app for strength training.
ReplyDeleteKeep it up Vicki! I ran my first half marathon last year and just got back from running the Disney World half...I've never considered myself a runner nor do I now, but it's such an accomplishment! If I can do it, anyone can :)
DeleteI exercise my brain. It needs a lot of work.
ReplyDeleteYup, running after a 3 yr old and 4 yr old. Pilates twice a week and Every once in a while i will pick up my dumbbells and play with them. I am trying to get into airboxing.
ReplyDeleteI prefer to atrophy :)
ReplyDeleteJillian Michaels Yoga Meltdown and I'm about to start some of her other exercises. And I do other workouts.
ReplyDeleteI just started her Body Revolution program. I'm on week 2 and really liking it. I did Insanity before, but was missing weight resistance training, so I'm trying something new. And it's nice I can do it at home and avoid the mass of New Year's resolution clients that crown the machines in January.
Deleteno-I prefer mental stimulation to physical exertion.
ReplyDeleteYes, I do Zumba and yoga and weather permitting I jog in the morning
ReplyDeleteWe have a gym in our building that I really need to start using. I quit exercising while pregnant, then about 4 months post partum something happened to my back and I had to stop going to the yoga I had started. Now that it's finally (mostly) healed I'm going to start again because I'm so damn tired all the time and I know exercise will help.
ReplyDeleteI walk my dog that's about it...When the nephew is over that's exercise enough that spaz goes 300 mph all day.
ReplyDeleteYes. I've done pilates for years. I can't jog bc my knees were wrecked years ago in an accident. I know it sounds lame, but for cardio I do gentle skipping in the basement on a few blankets. I also have a back injury so I have to watch my weight. I feel it right away. I always loved sports in school. I would have been happy to have had gym for all classes .
ReplyDeleteI bicycle to work (almost 4 miles each way) as often as I can - three days so far this week. And while I'm at work I sit on an exercise ball instead of an office chair so I am always moving. A few times a day I will lay back on the ball to stretch and do a set of crunches while I am there. At home I toss a 6 lb medicine ball (one of the small ones, about the size of a cantaloupe) from one hand to the other while watching TV. And we have a treadmill at home, but I hate it so it is exercise of last resort.
ReplyDeleteAnd even will all that I am still fat.
*even with. Damn phone.
DeleteLucas, I go to the gym, have a personal trainer, do line dancing, clean the house, am up & down a flight of stairs at work, and I too am fat, but fit and healthy, has to count right?
Delete@feraltart - being fit and healthy totally counts. Even though I am carrying a bunch of extra weight all my bloodwork comes back good at the Dr. No high cholesterol, no funky blood sugar, no high blood pressure. My chief complaint with the extra weight is that I carry all of it in the midsection. Which means that even though my neck measures a 16, I have to buy dress shirts with a neck size of 19 to get enough room to cover the gut. It's irritating. But my girlfriend doesn't seem to mind too much so I guess it's all good for now ;)
DeleteKind of. I do yoga a couple times a week but that's mostly for stress relief. I walk a lot and my second job requires lots of heavy lifting and generally working my ass off, but I get paid! Its better than exercise.
ReplyDeleteI love P90x! I can't do ALL of the exercises like the pull up bar, but it's okay to skip some of them and still get in great shape. The muscle confusion thing is what makes it work (in my opinion).
ReplyDeleteSo funny, I am so uncoordinated that I can't do the Kenpo (it's like boxing) so I just do other cardio stuff!
I go up and down 3 flights of stairs about 15 times a day. The elevator in our office building is soooo freaking slow that it's faster to take the stairs. I refer to it as the company fitness plan.
ReplyDeleteQuit my soul-sucking law job to train clients (Zumba, Body Pump, RIPPED, Pilates, Kicboxing) and I'm a Beachbody coach (Happy to see the p90xers here! Bring it guys!)
ReplyDeleteLove my life. I make less money than I did as an attorney but I get up every day happy to do what I do. A bad day teaching group ex is still better than a good day as a lawyer! ;-)
@FitwithLizzie - you are my hero! I LOVE it when people ditch the safe choice to follow their passion. Someday I hope to do the same.
DeleteGood for you! I did something similar and I love seeing others doing the same :)
Delete@FitwithLizzie & greenmountaingal - I so admire both of you for making such huge and scary life changes! As I sit in a meeting in my soul sucking, high paying job, just hoping the end of the day will come and I can leave, I wish I had your courage and willingness to make a similar life change for myself.
Deletedbfreak, live below your financial means, pay off debt, downsize everything and you'll be raring to go. Seriously.
DeleteThanks Agent**It! I've got next to no debt and do live within my means...I just have to do some major downsizing!
DeleteI am about go run right now.. No matter how many times a week I run I always feel the same way before I walk out the door " ughhhhhhh "
ReplyDeleteI do Winsor Pilates at least twice a week ( mari Winsor is evil btw ) and don't laugh at me but I do 8 minute abs five days a week. My brother is a pro mma fighter and an all American college wrestler and he showed me the way of the 8 minute work outs.. Apparently they are very popular for training. At least with grapplers. I have to laugh every time I write:say it though because it reminds me of that scene in Something About Mary
" Seven. Minute. Abs. We guarantee just as good of work out as the eight minute folk. If you're not satisfied with our product we will give you the last minute for free! "
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteSure do, first of all I live in New York and walk everywhere ...and then I hit the gym 3 times a week for cardio...don't use the weight machines...
ReplyDeleteI find I just feel better...
@Mizz and @mae I ran my first half marathon last year too. I also never thought I could run. It sure is addictive! I'm running my 5th 10K next weekend, and I do 5K's a lot too. On a normal week I run 4 times a week with the odd elliptical and strength training 1-2 days week.
ReplyDelete@Vicki You can do it!
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteFor those who say they prefer mental stimulation, you are missing out- because exercise IS mental stimulation! You mind is sharper, and the endorphin rush is awesome.
ReplyDeleteYoga and pilates on and off for years. A lot of walking. Walking the dog. Started running a few months ago and I'm loving it. I try to go a few times a week and have my first 10k coming up in a couple months!
ReplyDeleteGood for all you healthies in Entyland :). I've had 9 knee surgeries (include a total knee replacement= titanium knee at age 32) so that has limited all activity for me. Swimming is good but I don't willingly put on a bathing suit so hard to swim with all your clothes on. Plus being 5 months pregnant I'm finding every excuse not to be active. Admire everyone else though-- keep up the good work :)
ReplyDelete@prolixe
ReplyDeleteWhat a snobby little bitch! Anyone who loves (I realize *love* is not always the appropriate word) running is a runner!
I'm on week 4 of TurboFire, and I am starting to see some pretty awesome results (I have an AB, you guys!!!). Also, because of rampant parking fees in my city (only NYC is more expensive), I park in a neighbourhood near my work, and do the 20-25 walk to and from the office every day.
ReplyDeleteI've been working with a trainer 2x a week and doing cardio on off days. I've been doing 3 miles on the treadmill a couple times a week. We do a 5K each month. There's a "Thin Mint Sprint" coming up and one of the goodies in our bag is a box of Girl Scout Cookies. Ha!
ReplyDelete@donner - I would run every day all day if it got me a box of Thin Mints.
ReplyDelete@Maja - your ab is so hottttttt
Plantar Faciitis.
ReplyDeleteI do as little as possible at the moment that involves using my feet (like standing, walking,) but I'm trying to find away to arrange my schedule (read: the kids' schedules) so that I can get back in a swim class* or to the pool at the Y.
*Love taking swim classes at the local JC. They give grades and take attendance, so you have to show up (unlike a gym,) because who wouldn't feel stupid flunking PE as an adult? Plus, most of the teachers are going to push you a lot harder than if you just did laps at the Y.
If clicking on the mouse to get to the next blind is considered exercise, than yes.
ReplyDeleteYes especially now trying to lose baby weight.
ReplyDeleteSwimming is awesome for that. I lost 60 pounds mostly from swimming. There's no impact and the water adds all this wonderful resistance. Or Aqua-Aerobics, reduced impact/increased resistance.
Delete*pulling up Y pool schedule*
@Gayeld - do your feet roll inward? A couple years ago I was diagnosed w/chronic PF. Long story short, my current PTist believes I have alignment problems due to breaking my knee, and she has me working on glute strengthening exercises using a theraband. The goal is to strengthen the muscles to help pull things back outward.
ReplyDeleteI'm an extreme over-pronator (flat, flat, flat feet) and I have crooked hips.
DeleteI have a whole list of exercises for strengthening and stretching the muscles, but like everything else they fall by the wayside when your busy trying to keep up with the kids and work. (Plus, my three-year old thinks that every marble in the house belongs to her, so I usually end up hobbling down the hall shout at her to bring them back!)
Gayeld, I have flat feet & have orthotics. I wear them in my gym shoes but don't want to have to wear them everyday. I bought these sandals from Merrell & they are designed for women do the foot doesn't roll. They are so comfy, highly recommended.
DeleteBeen dancing since I was 3. I still teach classes two nights a week and every Saturday.
ReplyDelete@ Gayeld - the trick is once you get the plantar fascitis under control you have to be fanatical about not doing whatever inflamed it to begin with. I can never walk barefoot or in crappy flip flops. Roll your feet on frozen water bottles twice a day.
Ugh, it's the no barefeet part that really kills me. It used to literally be the first thing I did when I got home and even now I'll look down and realize I have no shoes on and don't remember taking them off. I've tried the Dr. Weil shoes and as far as I can tell, they made it worse (I know they made my hip ache.)
DeleteLOL! I have frozen water bottles and SpongeBob owie packs in the freezer (I stick the owie packs in my socks and curse a lot.)
@Gayeld I'm no podiatrist, but have you tried Haflingers? I don't have PF, but I have high arches (my ex-bf used to mock my "Barbie feet." Like that's a bad thing?). When I moved into my current place with hardwood floors after growing up with carpet, I found that it hurt my feet to walk on then. I some cute Haflinger slippers from Amazon and my feet haven't hurt since! Also gave a couple pairs to friends this Christmas, and they are now just as obsessed! Amazon had a ton of different styles for every personality :)
DeleteJust saw your comment Amber - did you get orthotics to correct the position issue or won't it help in your case?
ReplyDeleteI do exercise! I didn't for quite a few years because of serious health problems, but back in July, i joined the gym and have been sticking with it.
ReplyDeleteThe thing is, I loathe and detest exercise, but I force myself to do it. Hard cardio plus strength training. I.hate.it. I workout a minimum of five hours a week. Blech.
Another P90Xer here! 3 or 4 times a week when my toddler is taking her nap.
ReplyDeleteDid you have a hard time starting p90? I watch the commercials and they intimidate me. I'm not out of shape by any means but wow they are really moving fast!
Delete@mikey - I have them, but they don't help. Basically, I healed wrong from my knee break. My bones are rotated inward because my ER-assigned doctor was awful. So from the hip on down, everything is just off, so it needs to be pulled back outward.
ReplyDeleteThe frozen water bottle thing is awesome. I've found that if you get the long skinny Smart Water (not the absolute biggest one), it's the perfect diameter for your arches and you can do both at once.
I exercise (an hour of power walking at 10% incline on the treadmill) 5 days a week most weeks. For me, it's not only critical to losing weight (I'm always 5 - 10 pounds overweight - sigh), but also to feel good in general, to reduce anxiety/stress and to have more energy. Up until a few months ago, I was also doing strength training 2 - 3 times a week, but I injured my neck pretty badly. Now, since I've only been doing cardio, I keep injuring my lower back and I have not been getting in the number of workouts that I want. I hate the way I feel without exercise :(. I can't wait to get back to normal!
ReplyDeleteKrav Maga and combat conditioning.
ReplyDeletebella, impressive.
DeleteI try to every day, although my exercise today was moving chairs downstairs for my sisters team dinner. My excuse is that I am too sore from yoga yesterday.
ReplyDeleteI go with my mom to crossfit sometimes, but usually I just run/power walk around our neighborhood lakes then hit up the local Y for some Zumba, which I am absolutely horrible at.
Swimming is awesome, I swam year round on a competition team for 10 years but hate anything other then dolphin diving in my backyard pool now.
#Bleeping Plantar Fasciitis (aka Policeman's Bleeping Heel)
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy. I had it once and the first thing in the morning I felt like chopping my foot off at the ankle. I got it from doing a so-called low-impact exercise video.
Three walks with the dog every day (weather permitting) plus yoga at home, plus the treadmill and weights at the gym at least a couple of times a week.
ReplyDeleteEnty, you should take a hint from your readers!
@Gayeld & VIP - Oh yeah! Chaco makes flip flops w/arch support. That's what I have :)
ReplyDeleteEvery morning for 40 minutes, right before I log in to read CDAN!
ReplyDeleteI bike 2 miles to/from work everyday and do CrossFit 3-4 times a week. Try to fit in yoga 1 day a week but sometimes I get too busy. I also go on a 6-10 mile run at least every two weeks. Love it!
ReplyDeleteI've been exercising for as long as I can remember. I walk at least four miles a day (can't run because of bad knees). I just started working out with kettlebells and they are awesome; I highly recommend them to everyone. I also do yoga, Bar Method, The Firm, and many more DVDs.
ReplyDeleteYesI loveit it keeps me sane, and along the way I have met some awesome people.
ReplyDeleteI ran my first marathon last year - it was a long way... so this year i'm running my first ultra marathon at 50k... just for the experience of finishing !
My preference is half marathons which I will keep doing for as long as I can.
I have a PT session twice a week, playtime at Zumba once a week and try to run twice a week. I put on about 15kg after high school so I'm trying to get back to a size 10. Ive lost half of it in 3 months! And I'm playin netball again this year, yayyyyy!
ReplyDeleteHigh intensity interval training. Really quick to do, raises your aerobic capacity, reduces fatty deposits on internal organs so is helpful for anyone with diabetes or suchlike. I have spinal damage from a car crash and can't do certain exercises so this suits me perfectly.
ReplyDeleteNobody's mentioned kegeling?
ReplyDelete@FSP - I do that, too. Followed by grip tests. ;P
ReplyDeleteI walk 6 miles 5 days a week.
ReplyDeleteYep, and I love it! I used to clock in the typical hour cardio with some weights here and there at the gym, bored out of my mind the entire time for YEARS. Then I started going to this high intensity interval training studio (half treadmill, half weights), and I all of a sudden started LOVING working out. I look forward to going every single time. It is such a blast, music blaring, and every single class is different. Different speeds and inclines on the treadmill, different floor exercises and weight moves. So fun! I honestly think people should only do exercise that they love. Otherwise it just turns into a chore. :)
ReplyDeleteI went through the Insanity program last year and lost 35lbs in 2 months. It was brutal but I felt great every day when I was finished. I was in the best shape of my life but a little too skinny. Still go at it 2-4 days per week, but I have gained about 15lbs back thanks to my dedication to 12oz curls.
ReplyDeleteWOW! You guys are a fit bunch! I wish I joined the party a little earlier so I could ask for some advice and motivational tips. I've never exercised as I've always been petite (and really lazy) but I'm turning 27 this year, refuse to give up the weekly boozing (beer - worst choice, I know), and need to start toning up before I turn into a whale :(
ReplyDeleteStarted running 4 days ago, my muscles are super sore. Both with long limbs and was the skinny kid all my life, then I hit my mid 30s and noticed I had piled on. So we will see how long my new health kick lasts.
ReplyDelete@Sashajames2 - stick with it. It will get better. And remember not to overdo it when you are just starting out. I recommend using a Couch to 5k app. I did that a couple of years ago and had good results with it.
DeleteI have been lifting weights on and off for about 10 years. Got the running bug at the 1st of the year but my knee has been acting up. If anyone has any advice please pass it along. Now it hurts when I take off after my 2 year old. I am envious of all of the marathoners out there. HELP PLEASE!
ReplyDeleteDella I hurt my knee a few years ago while training. My physical therapist had me strengthen the muscles inside the thighs and hamstrings to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee. Squats and lunges just never let your knee go past your toes keep it at 90 degrees. Start alternating run for 5 minutes walk for 5 and keep building up to run 10 mins walk 5 until you cut the walk out. If it gets worse instead of better see a dr. A staionary bike is also good for getting the blood flowing in the knee with no impact. Hope this helps.
DeleteThanks. I was laid off in November so, I don't really want to spend the $ on a doctor visit. I'm gonna take it easy for a couple of weeks but I can't take a brake from the 2 year old. Wish me luck.
DeleteDella start with the stationary bike if you access to one or a reg bike is fine just not uphill, it's really important to get the blood pumping through the knee it helps the cartilage repair itself. My PT started me on the bike for 15 minutes then 15minutes of strength exercises. Go to your local sports store and get a rubber resistance band, they're pretty cheap and start doing squats with the band then try crab walking with the band just above your knees. I'm sure you can look up PT exercises on line. Good luck I know it's daunting at first and you think you'll never get it back but you will, see my earlier post about my broken back, PT saved me. Feel free to ping me here if you have any questions I usually check in daily.
DeletePS sorry to hear about your job :(
Yes! Have to. But I love it. FIT and core classes twice a week, running 3 times a week and yoga twice a week. Love to swim and play squash too just don't on my reg rotation. Ran my first half marathon two years ago and my first spartan race last year training for both of those now. I broke my back in '06 they said I'd never run on pavement again. Two rods and 6 years later doing great never limit yourself! You'd be surprised what you can do!
ReplyDeleteI power walk every where and every day. Im trying so hard to keep my weight down because I used to be obese (174 at only 5"3) but its really difficult. I walk at least 2 miles a day and when the weather is.good I walk.about 6 miles.
ReplyDeleteDoes jumping to conclusions count?
ReplyDelete*LOL @ FSP* No, no one has MENTIONED it, but we should all be doing it!
ReplyDeleteIn one of my yoga classes we do a keigel exercise men supposedly have them too just in the pelvic area. Every time we do it the class gets the giggles- the women and men!
ReplyDeleteCurves! It is so much fun, I go an hour instead of the typical 30 mins. It's resistance so it never gets too easy. I lost 60 lbs and had a ball doing it.
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to exercise again. 37.5 weeks preggo, tired and achy! Love to feel fit, looking forward it.
ReplyDeleteYup - I've started doing it more often since my failed attempt to quit smoking.
ReplyDeleteBeen exercising my entire life, except for the past 3 years. I started up again in August largely to get my anxiety under control. It has been awesome! I lost 15 lbs and I am back to my high school weight (was a dancer). haven't even had to change my diet. I have more energy and feel so much better about myself. I run, lift weights, do yoga, and am about to start swimming again. The only crappy thing is that I lost my boobs again. Oh and sex life - there is something to loving your body and feeling free to have some serious funtime.
ReplyDeleteUsually I get my exercise from walking around to & from the train stations, etc., but since I was laid off, I'm starting to use my Planet Fitness membership again; I use a whole bunch of machines (I want to say Nautilus, but it's a different company), try to do some stretches, and then a bit of elliptical. (I say a bit because even on Level 1, 5 minutes really kicks my ass; then again, that just shows how much it's something I need, eh?) I've only been a few times so far, but I do think it'll do me good, plus I can go at times other than during the after-work rush hour.
ReplyDeleteWhen they were first planning on building the PF nearest me, someone on Live Journal started bitching that PF was really only for "fat middle-aged women." AHEM...I resemble that remark, damn it, and see nothing wrong with being going to a place that doesn't give you grief for not being perfect the minute you walk in the door. (Some people bitch about having to see fat folks, but then rag on them if they're at the gym trying to at least get more aerobically fit; apparently we'll all just supposed to die and dissolve into vapor or something so as not to offend their delicate sensitivities. *rolls eyes*)
@Robin, those kind of comments make me stabby. I remember overhearing someone making fun of someone who was a little heavy running outdoors, "they need to run a little faster" or something like that. I was like "At least they are trying!" Why people have to be such a-holes is beyond me.
DeleteI row...the water is my happy place. I also walk a couple of mile every day (to and from the park and ride) and I try to swim at least 5 miles a week. In the summers I paddle-board and sometimes windsurf. Sensing a theme? I probably should have been born a fish...or mermaid! ;)
ReplyDeleteI have plantars too. I just run through it. Got some inserts. Tried to take time off and it didn't change.
ReplyDelete@bella - I wouldn't wanna meet you in a dark alley! Wow Krav Maga is intense!
ReplyDeleteThanks to so many of you with the advice about the PF! Going through a little bout right now, and after reading here, I am blaming it on a Sat spent walking in my high top Chucks. I can handle many different things about getting older, but it means I can't wear the shoes I have been wearing for 30 years? Me and Father Time are in for a big fight....
ReplyDeleteHow RUDE.
ReplyDelete;-)
Yes. I do a little bit of everything. Treadmill, stationary bike, Pilates, Bikram yoga, weight lifting and I have a ton of DVD's I rotate through to not get bored. There are definitely things I enjoy more than others but I've never finished a workout and regretted it.
ReplyDeleteA T-Tapp fan here.
ReplyDeleteI started this morning the "4-Hour Body" slow carb diet and I am thinking about incorporating kettlebells (as recommended by the author).