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Help me stop being such a bum!

8 replies

CabbagePatchCheryl · 13/11/2018 11:53

39 year old, only a little overweight but super unfit. To be honest I’m not v bothered about the weight (although it would be nice not to be in between two sizes in the shops - grrr) but I just feel a bit too soft iyswim and want my body to be strong and resilient. I think a bit of exercise would help my mood too.

BUT I am soooo lazy and demotivated - total couch potato. (Also legitimately quite time-poor and stressed). I don’t know where to start. I actually told myself I was going to do C25K over the summer, did one run and then broke my toe (unrelated incident) and was out of action for 6 weeks. Now it’s cold and dark and I don’t want to go out.

Would love to hear tips of how you’ve got into an exercise routine esp if it doesn’t come naturally to you. What would you recommend? I’m thinking maybe shortish online videos I can do at home? I also have an exercise bike —gathering dust— in the spare room. I like the idea of something relaxing but strengthening like yoga too. TIA!

OP posts:
EmmaStone · 13/11/2018 15:05

How competitive are you? I have to say, I started moving a bit more with a Fitbit, but an Apple Watch was revolutionary. I was already exercising regularly (I'd managed to change habits but also see a PT fortnightly, and if I don't do stuff in between our sessions they're REALLY hard, and not as much use), but having daily goals, monthly goals, various other goals, competitions against friends, trying to outdo PBs etc etc has been so motivating.

I'm nearly 44 so not much older, but I've really noticed the last couple of years how much harder it is to maintain muscle density and keep the weight off, so I'd really encourage getting into good habits now.

So other than the Apple Watch and PT stuff (I work a 4 day week, so see him on my day off, but he sees plenty of clients before their work day starts), I go to an evening weekly circuits class with friends (set up a WhatsApp group to chivvy them along each week, so there should always be someone to go with), go to yoga once a week after work (studio in my village, so easy to get to, and just lovely, so I want to go), then might go for a run, or do a Fitness Blender session at home (I have a few weights and stuff at home). If I've not done anything, and not got much time, or it's dark, I'll just walk on the treadmill at home for half an hour after dinner and the kids are in bed. DH has just bought a spinning bike too, so I might give that a whirl.

I've genuinely got to a point now where I get a bit angsty if I've not moved in some way each day, and I NEVER used to feel like that. However, it would be very easy to skip a few days and then slip into old habits. My watch then nudges me every day, so it's a great motivator.

The hardest bit is getting out the door, but once you've done that, I don't think you'd regret it. Good luck, keep us posted!

JellyBellies · 13/11/2018 15:12

Hi, I am. In a similar position. I have download the jillian Michael's app and I am doing her 60 day program. Its nice because its a short workout and it is pre-planned for you!

CabbagePatchCheryl · 13/11/2018 20:39

Emma I’m not competitive exactly but I like goals and challenges. Your regime sounds amazing but I’m so far off that at the mo - it’d kill me!

Jelly just downloaded the app and will have a browse. I like that you can just do short workouts to start off with.

OP posts:
carrie74 · 13/11/2018 21:54

I'd say take small steps, but make yourself a goal that's achievable and measurable. I find weights gives a really fast improvement, and is quite easily measurable - you can lift more this month than last month, say. Or C25k is very easily measurable and achievable. 30 day shred is quite good for this too, although HARD!

BlueChampagne · 14/11/2018 14:27

Fresh air and exercise (cycling, C25K?) might help with the stress?

CabbagePatchCheryl · 14/11/2018 16:27

I completely agree. I crave fresh air but it’s so hard when the mornings and nights are dark and cold so I’m thinking if I can get the “exercise” bit underway in the comfort of my own home maybe, then I’d feel motivated enough to get myself outside! Just needing suggestions for baby steps I guess...

OP posts:
JellyBellies · 16/11/2018 14:18

I agree. I have been doing the app for a week and now I feel like I want to go for a run!

Starting small at home has helped.

Emimoaner · 16/11/2018 22:54

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