Unfit, mid 40s, need to get back on track...

[happytoday73]

OK after some advice and inspiration.

I'm mid 40s and about 20lb overweight... I'm tall and would be quite hourglass figure wise were it not for the fact I carry most of my excess weight on my belly since had children.
Although I walk quite quickly and try to ensure always do 10k steps I've realised I'm quite unfit when it comes to aerobic exercise. People talk about doing 30 laps of pool that are much bigger than me and I just couldn't. I hate the gym and running but need to sort this out.

I'd like to swim (as long as it doesn't make eczema worse) and do dance classes once we are allowed again as think more likely to keep up something I enjoy. My DH thinks I should try a personal trainer.. But I think I'm to unfit to get value for money at the moment.

Does anyone have any suggestions for what I could do now to improve my aerobic fitness. And if personal trainer rather than say online classes would be better

I should say I'm on two lots of blood pressure meds... So am wary of say HIIT training but do wonder if this is something should consider

Would not the personal trainer help you to identify ways in which you can improve?

For me, couch to 5k for running. Running more improves my swimming. Swimming more improves my fitness.

I also got a skipping rope delivered when we had to go into isolation for 2 weeks. Skipping is serious cardio!

The Joe Wicks kids PE are fairly gentle- although the odd one is mad. Could be in gentle intro to HIIT?
I think there us also (free) online dance and yoga currently.

Can you check with your GP before doing serious exercise, given your concerns about blood pressure?

You're completely wrong about a personal trainer. They would show you the best ways, for your body and level of fitness, to get in shape without injuring yourself. If you can afford it, you should do it.

I'm in the same situation but with more to lose.

I'm planning to get a personal trainer as a treat when lockdown ends. I'm so tired of trying to work it out by myself and gave several medical problems that need consideration.

I'm really looking forward to it.

You could be describing me.

If you hate running then don't do it!

A PT would help you identify what works best for you, and what you would enjoy.

It doesn't have to wait until the end of lockdown either, all the PTs I know are offering Zoom sessions at the moment

Alternatively, you can find plenty of Zumba and other dance fitness classes free online (YouTube or even the NHS website) to get you started

Hmmmm... Thanks for replies everyone. I really appreciate it. Its also great to know I'm not alone..... We need a plan ladies!

So looks like my DH might have a point.... 😱....(dare I admit that 🤣)

I've ordered a skipping rope as that seems a good plan for starters and like fact can do quickly if only have 10 minutes and anywhere..

So how do I pick a good PT? I don't know anyone who has one... Should they have a certain qualification or membership? Certain questions to ask? I obviously don't want one that just for fitness fanatics or body builders..I doubt they advertise as 'I specialise in 40s, flabby, unfit women who know they need to do something before menopause' ...
Or is it just a case of contacting a few and seeing who think would be best?

The Joe Wicks PE for kids nearly killed me! I'm beyond help

Early forties and really need to get fit so following. I have done some Joe Wicks kids'workouts lately and would not call them gentle

I like walking but it only feels like exercise if I go by myself which seems to happen rarely.

I'm the same age as you and I have a wonderful PT. both her and her sister have clients of all ages and shapes. I pay £20 for a 45 min session and it's worth every penny!

Will you be able to swim as all pools are closed? I too hate running but as it’s the only option left at the moment I’ve started, it’s become tolerable as I’ve got better and it’s a good way to get fit fast it’s a noticeable difference after 2 moths

"I doubt they advertise as 'I specialise in 40s, flabby, unfit women who know they need to do something before menopause' ..."

They'll mention something about weightloss. I'm sure it wouldn't be difficult to find a PT who's helped women with weightloss before.

@happytoday73

Hmmmm... Thanks for replies everyone. I really appreciate it. Its also great to know I'm not alone..... We need a plan ladies!

So looks like my DH might have a point.... 😱....(dare I admit that 🤣)

I've ordered a skipping rope as that seems a good plan for starters and like fact can do quickly if only have 10 minutes and anywhere..

So how do I pick a good PT? I don't know anyone who has one... Should they have a certain qualification or membership? Certain questions to ask? I obviously don't want one that just for fitness fanatics or body builders..I doubt they advertise as 'I specialise in 40s, flabby, unfit women who know they need to do something before menopause' ...
Or is it just a case of contacting a few and seeing who think would be best?

If you can't rely on recommendations, I would suggest looking on FB and Instagram for PTs local to you. Look at their posts, and see who you like the sound of!

Ideally you would like someone who is at least a Level 2 in personal training and/or with a physical therapy qualification, but the main indicator of a good PT for me is the quality of the content they post.
Anyone who tries to push a particular diet (keto, intermittent fasting, etc) or sells "limited time offers" onto some sort of lose 20lbs in 3 weeks, give them a wide berth.

PTs advocating varied but controlled diets, showcasing clients of different ages and fitness levels, and putting out informative, science-led content are usually a good bet.

If you happen to be in the North East I can recommend a few, just PM me!

I have a subscription to Fiit which I really like. Loads of different classes to choose from so easy to find something which suits you.

I can't do joewicks either. 😞

Thanks @AntennaReborn unfortunately I'm not in the NE but your guidance has helped. I found an old post asking for PT recommendations on a local Facebook page.... Your advice helped me weed out 30 nearly names to a possible 5 to contact. Seems like a few are looking at setting up outdoor 1-2-1 sessions rather than zoom in next few weeks.

@happytoday73 glad I could help 😊

I hope you find someone you like!